Israel eases the Gaza blockade, allowing the entry of humanitarian aid and food supplies

Israel has responded to growing international pressure over its blockade of the Gaza Strip by allowing much needed food and medical supplies into the Palestinian Territory. The security cabinet made the decision amidst concerns that additional civilian aid flotillas like the one three weeks ago may again head for Gazan ports. Israeli officials held marathon meetings over the weekend with officials from Egypt and the United States to finalize the details of the plan to ease the siege of Gaza.