Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has said  that the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by Israeli forces, will not stop the momentum of the "Axis of Resistance" in the Middle East.

 Khamenei’s remarks came after Sinwar, the mastermind behind the deadly October 7 attack on Israel, was confirmed dead by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF).

"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.

He reiterated Iran’s commitment to supporting Palestinian fighters, stating, "We will continue to stand by the sincere Palestinian mujahideen and fighters."

Israel confirms killing of Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar in Gaza

Yahya Sinwar, a prominent figure within Hamas, was killed on Friday, October 17, following an Israeli operation targeting him. Drone footage released by the IDF showed his final moments, where he was seen slumped in a chair with injuries, shortly before a tank shell destroyed the building where he was hiding.

Sinwar’s death marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, particularly after the October 7 attack that claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis.

Hamas has confirmed the death of its leader and issued a statement vowing that the group will not release any hostages taken during the October 7 assault until what they describe as "the aggression in Gaza" comes to an end.

The group also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its resistance against Israel, even as it faces mounting pressure from Israeli forces.

Sinwar, who had been imprisoned by Israel for many years, was a key figure in Hamas' leadership, rising to the top after the assassination of former political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran earlier this year.

Known for his ruthless enforcement against Palestinians seen as collaborating with Israel, Sinwar played a critical role in shaping Hamas' military strategy. His death is seen as a significant blow to the group, although Khamenei's comments suggest that Iran and other actors within the "Axis of Resistance" will continue their support for the Palestinian cause.

A Palestinian student was asleep in his tent at a hospital when an Israeli strike brought an inferno

The October 7 attack, which was orchestrated under Sinwar’s leadership, is considered the deadliest assault on Israel in recent history. It has plunged the region into deeper turmoil, with Israel intensifying its military response in Gaza, and international actors calling for de-escalation.

As tensions continue to rise, the Middle East remains on edge, with Khamenei's defiant remarks likely to add fuel to the already volatile situation.