From regulating the price of chicken to levying fees on cigarettes, Hamas is seeking to widen control over Gaza as US plans for its future slowly take shape, Gazans say, adding to rivals' doubts over whether it will cede authority as promised.

After a ceasefire began last month, Hamas swiftly re-established its hold over areas from which Israel withdrew, killing dozens of Palestinians it accused of collaborating with Israel, theft or other crimes.

Foreign powers demand the group disarm and leave government, but have yet to agree on who will replace them.

Now, a dozen Gazans say they are increasingly feeling Hamas' control in other ways.

Authorities monitor everything coming into areas of Gaza held by Hamas, levying fees on some privately imported goods, including fuel as well as cigare

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