Israel allows construction materials into Gaza

Israel's military says it has started transporting 40,000 tons of construction materials into the Gaza Strip in a new move to ease its blockade of the coastal territory.

The weeklong operation will supply badly needed gravel for UN schools and other humanitarian projects. Israel closed a main cargo crossing on Sunday. Maj. Gen. Eitan Dangot, a top commander, says the only remaining crossing is being expanded to facilitate increased movement. (AP)