Hamas has recalled about 7,000 members of its security forces to reassert control over areas of Gaza recently vacated by Israeli troops, according to local sources.

The Palestinian group also appointed five new governors all with military backgrounds, some of whom previously commanded brigades in its armed wing.

The mobilisation order was reportedly issued via phone calls and text messages which said the aim was to 'cleanse Gaza of outlaws and collaborators with Israel' and told fighters to report within 24 hours.

Tensions rose sharply after two members of Hamas's elite forces were shot dead by gunmen from the powerful Dughmush clan in Gaza City's Sabra neighbourhood. Their deaths triggered a series of violent responses from Hamas, raising fears of a major escalation in violence.

Hamas members later surrounded an area believed to house over 300 armed Dughmush gunmen, leading to further clashes resulting in the death of a clan member and the kidnapping of others.

These developments come amid ongoing concerns about the governance of Gaza and the effectiveness of peace plans being put forth, increasing the stakes for both Hamas and internal factions.

A retired security officer expressed fears of civil war, noting the abundance of weapons in Gaza and ongoing frustrations among the populace.

Given the rising chaos and violence, many Gazans are bracing for potential further unrest, exacerbating an already fragile situation.