BBC: Fighting between Israel and Palestinian militants in Gaza appears to have calmed after an unofficial truce was reached following days of violence…
There are theories on both sides as to why the other might want a limited escalation. Some believe Hamas wants to reassert its resistance credentials in the face of criticism from more extremist groups in Gaza. Many Palestinians believe Israel provoked the violence deliberately ahead of upcoming Israeli elections in January.
But it is thought neither Israel nor Hamas want another Gaza war at this time. Israel has other concerns in the region, notably Iran, and Hamas is keen to consolidate its power and strengthen Gaza’s economy… (more)
