Hamas security forces in the southern Gaza border city of Rafah Aug. 14 battled armed militants of the Jund Ansar Allah ("Warriors of God"), who had earlier in the day declared the coastal strip an "Islamic emirate." Fifteen Palestinians were confirmed dead following the operation by Hamas' al-Qassam Brigades. Some 120 Palestinians, including civilians, were injured, many critically.

Hamas forces detonated explosives at a house that belonged to the leader of the group, Sheikh Abdel-Latif Abu Moussa. Clashes were first reported after supporters of Jund Ansar Allah barricaded themselves inside a mosque. Earlier on Friday, hundreds of the group's supporters rallied in Rafah, declaring Gaza an "Islamic emirate." (Ma'an news Agency, Aug. 15)

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