Egypt navy ship 'hit by Sinai militants' missile'

Islamic State-affiliated militants in Sinai say they have carried out a missile attack on an Egyptian naval vessel in the Mediterranean Sea.

The militants, who call themselves Sinai Province, posted pictures online of what looked like a missile followed by a large explosion on the ship.

Egyptian officials said a coastguard vessel caught fire after a fire-fight with militants on the shore.

The army said there were no casualties, contradicting the militants' claim.

The incident happened in waters off the north Sinai town of Rafah, which neighbours the Gaza Strip.
Witnesses said they saw other naval boats rushing to the scene to rescue those on board the burning vessel.

It follows a wave of attacks on the Egyptian military by Sinai Province.

Earlier this month, more than 100 people - including at least 17 soldiers - were killed in clashes after militants launched near-simultaneous raids on military checkpoints in Sheikh Zuweid and Rafah in Sinai.