The United States on Thursday welcomed the Israeli decision to ease restrictions on the Gaza Strip to allow more goods into the Palestinian territory, DPA reported.
Israel had been under increased pressure to relax the rules since the deadly storming on May 31 of a Turkish ship that was trying to penetrate the blockade. The raid sparked worldwide criticism and prompted US President Barack Obama to say the situation in Gaza was "unsustainable."
The Obama administration has been working with the Israeli government to find ways to get goods into Gaza without compromising Israeli security. Israel has been concerned that the tiny territory could be used for smuggling weapons.
"We welcome the general principles announced earlier today by the Israeli government," said Mark Toner, the State Department's acting deputy spokesman. "Were hopeful that the situation in Gaza will improve."