Hamas has been involved in a prolonged firefight with bandits trying to loot aid trucks, as the terror organisation struggles to assert control over Gaza.

The incident, which took place near Rafah, began after a large aid vehicle broke down and was set upon by armed robbers.

Another stopped nearby, and graphic footage shows the bandits then turning their weapons on a force of Hamas fighters, who style themselves as police, as they approached.

The terror group faces the challenge of providing basic security and services to the people of Gaza, following large withdrawals of Israeli troops after Sunday’s ceasefire.