Jerusalem  - Tony Blair said Wednesday that he welcomed Israel's move to halt hostilities for a few hours to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, but said more regular access was needed.

"I welcome Israel's decision to allow a temporary humanitarian lull today," he said in a statement.

Blair serves as the representative of the Quartet, which is made up of the United State, European Union, Russia and the United Nations.

"We must now ensure that this decision is fully observed and that there is greater and more predictable access for all humanitarian supplies," he added, saying that "ultimately, we must work towards an agreement for the reopening of the crossings into Gaza."

Since Hamas overtook the enclave in 2007, the border crossings have been open only for the limited import of basic humanitarian goods and exports have been banned.

Israel instituted a three-hour lull in the fighting in the salient, to allow Palestinians living there to stock up on necessities during the afternoon. An official said no rockets were reported to have been fired by Palestinian militants during this time.

After the lull, reports said hostilities resumed. (dpa)