Islamic Jihad, the Palestinian group leading an armed conflict against Israel over its occupation, has significantly gained political and military prowess in recent years.

The Gaza-based group, which was founded in 1979, launched hundreds of rocket and mortar attacks in the last year, prompting Israel to view the group as a growing threat. Even Hamas, the Palestinian group that rules Gaza, sees it as a direct threat to its power.

The group's boost in popularity has increased fears that a return to Palestinian-Israeli peace talks could be further jeopardised.

Tony Birtley reports from Gaza.