Hamas will survive after Yahya Sinwar’s death: Iran’s Khamenei
A supporter of Yemen's Huthis displays a picture of Hamas' slain leader Yahya Sinwar during a rally held in the Huthi-controlled capital Sanaa on October 18, 2024 in protest against Israel's attacks on Lebanon and the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip. (AFP Photo)
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei affirmed on Saturday that Hamas will endure and remain resilient despite the recent death of its leader, Yahya Sinwar, during an Israeli military operation in Gaza.
Khamenei’s statement comes days after Sinwar, who was seen as the architect of the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks on Israel, was killed, leaving a significant impact on the ongoing Gaza war.
Khamenei’s response to Sinwar’s death
Khamenei acknowledged the loss of Yahya Sinwar as a “painful” event for the resistance front but emphasized that the Palestinian movement will continue to exist and fight. “Hamas is alive and will remain alive,” Khamenei said in a statement. “The martyrdom of Sinwar will not end the resistance.”
He further praised Sinwar as “a shining figure of resistance and struggle” who stood resolute against Israel. The Iranian leader also highlighted Sinwar’s role in orchestrating the Oct. 7 attacks, calling them an “irreparable blow” to Israel.
Hamas and Iran’s longstanding ties
Iran has been a strong supporter of Hamas, with its backing rooted in its foreign policy stance since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Tehran has consistently rejected Israel’s legitimacy, making its support for Palestinian groups like Hamas central to its geopolitical strategy.
Sinwar’s role in Hamas and the Gaza conflict
Yahya Sinwar had taken over as Hamas leader after the death of Ismail Haniyeh in July. His death is seen as a significant blow to the movement, though Israeli officials have yet to claim responsibility.
Sinwar, known for his tactical leadership, was instrumental in Hamas’s actions during the Gaza conflict and held strong ties to Iran’s political and military apparatus.
