OK Mantra, of course most people accept the fact that GWB, was an extreme right wing 'Hawk', and far more likely to condone, or support, aggressive security measures from Israel.
Most would also expect Obama to be more intent on peaceful negotiation, rather than military intervention, but I contend that the Palestinians can also expect, greatly diminished support from the western public, at large.

Personally, I think this is because of the growing recognition of Islamism, as a significant global threat, and because of the Palestinian links to the most extreme Islamists.

I agree that many Palestinians may feel as if they have been forced to side with the extremists, even if they are not overly political, or obsessed with the Islamist ideal of Muslim Global Domination, they have chosen to support it, and that will always be totally unacceptable, and must always be taken into consideration, when dealing with them.

So, while we may see some more meaningful attempts at negotiation, from new world leaders, until the Palestinians, distance themselves from the likes of extremist groups like Hamas, then any chance for peaceful resolutions are illusory.

Would worship of a site be considered idolatry in Islamic thought?

The Palestinian struggle for a homeland has been completely hijacked by Islamic extremists.

I thought all Muslims had to, or were supposed to travel to Makkah (as you spell it), at least once

would that make it worship of a site?

then apart from history, what is the value of the sites, and why do Muslims pray facing Makkah?

You know, in Pagan thought, worship towards a site, object, whatever, charges it with energy that can be harnessed/harvested.

Is this also the reason why people are not allowed to get in front of Muslims when they are praying?

I recall reading somewhere that Mohammed had Pagan things in the Qu'ran and had them removed.