Gazan group’s rising influence seen as threat

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.