Shortly after a ceasefire took effect in Gaza, clashes erupted between armed groups, some backed by Israel and others loyal to Hamas, as the Islamist movement sought to reassert control over the devastated territory.

Some of these groups are criminal gangs, others consist of members of historically influential Gaza families, and some combine both elements, experts told AFP.

As Gaza's post-war governance remains uncertain, Hamas has redeployed its armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, along with two auxiliary units -- the Sahm and Radea forces — to areas vacated by Israeli troops.

- Gangs -

Several armed gangs in Gaza are reportedly acting under Israeli protection, and allegedly loot aid convoys entering the territory, where shortages remain dire after Israel's wartime blockade.

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