Israel reopens Gaza Strip crossings

Israeli authorities have reopened the two crossings with the Gaza Strip after days of hostilities in a sign cease-fire talks may be advancing.

Israeli and Hamas officials confirmed that the Erez and Kerem Shalom crossings were opened for the first time in almost a week yesterday. The reopening came just hours hours after Palestinian militants launched rockets into Israel and the military responded with tank fire.

The rocket fire threatened to undermine Egyptian-mediated efforts to cement a peace deal that Hamas hope will ease a crippling Israeli-egyptian blockade.

No casualties were reported from the rockets and no Palestinian group claimed responsibility.

Tens of thousands of Palestinians rallied in the Gaza Strip on Saturday to mark the anniversary of their mass protests along the Israeli border.

Four Palestinians, including three teenagers, were shot dead and dozens were wounded by Israeli soldiers.