Hamas leader's death 'won't stop resistance': Khamenei

The death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar will not halt the "axis of resistance" and Hamas will live on, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says.

"His loss is undoubtedly painful for the axis of resistance, but this front did not cease advancing with the martyrdom of prominent figures," Khamenei said in a statement.

"Hamas is alive and will remain alive."

Sinwar, the architect of Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that triggered the war in Gaza, was killed on Wednesday in a gunfight with Israeli forces after a year-long manhunt, and his death was announced on Thursday.

"He was a shining face of resistance and struggle," Khamenei said.

"With a steely resolve, he stood against the oppressive and aggressive enemy.

"With wisdom and courage, he dealt them the irreparable blow of October 7 that has been recorded in the history of this region.

"Then, with honour and pride, he ascended to the heavens of the martyrs."

The "axis of resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.

The groups describe themselves as the resistance to Israel and US influence in the Middle East.

"As always, we will remain by the side of the sincere fighters and combatants, by God's grace and help," Khamenei said.