According to the reports, the Middle East Quartet on Monday welcomed Israel's loosening of its Gaza blockade rules.

It has been reported that in a statement released by the U. S. State Department, the Quartet, which consists of the United States, the European Union, Russian Federation and the United Nations, cited the needs of the civilian population in reiterating its position that the situation had become "unsustainable, unacceptable and not in the interests of any of those concerned."

The group said, "The new policy towards Gaza just announced by the government of Israel is a welcome development. Full and effective implementation will comprise a significant shift in strategy towards meeting the needs of Gaza's population for humanitarian and commercial goods, civilian reconstruction and infrastructure, and legitimate economic activity as well as the security needs of Israel."

According to the Quartet, it will continue to work with Israel, the Palestinian Authority and others to "ensure these arrangements are implemented as quickly as possible."

Saying there is "no need for unnecessary confrontations," the Quartet urged those wanting to deliver goods to Gaza to do so through established channels so their cargo can be inspected and transferred via land crossings.

The New York Times has reported that Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu announced the easing of the 3-yearlong blockade Sunday. Netanyahu said Israel "seeks to keep out of Gaza weapons and war-supporting materiel that Hamas uses" to attack Israel and its civilians.

He further said, "All other goods will be allowed into Gaza." (With Inputs from Agencies)