Egypt had previously kept the crossing closed to cargo, while Israel also maintained heavy restrictions.

BBC: Gaza construction convoy crosses from Egypt

Israeli security officials said they had intelligence warnings of a possible attack in the area, and the nearby Kerem Shalom crossing point for cargo between Gaza and Israel was closed for several days last week.

NPR: Palestinian Attack, Kidnapping Angers Israel

On Sunday, the pace of assistance picked up as three U.S. Marine KC-130J cargo planes carrying water and supplies became the first flights to land at Sendai airport since it closed after the earthquake struck.

WSJ: Aid Effort in Japan