I am not sure what influence the conflict in Iraq/Afgan has had on this, nor the element of renewed efforts by Russia to flex it muscles in the area, combined with the attempts by Iran to dominate the sphere of influence. But I can't help to believe they are all related.
Israel attacks Gaza, more than 155 reported killed
http://www.reuters.com/article/topNe...opNews&sp=true
By Nidal al-Mughrabi
GAZA (Reuters) - Israeli warplanes and combat helicopters pounded the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip on Saturday, killing at least 155 people in the bloodiest day for Palestinians in more than 20 years of conflict.
Militants in the Gaza Strip responded with rocket salvoes that killed one Israeli man and wounded several others. Both sides said they were prepared to launch wider attacks.