AL-QAIDA leader Ayman al-Zawahiri has been killed by a US drone strike in Afghanistan, President Joe Biden claimed on Monday.  

"Justice has been delivered and this terrorist leader is no more,” he said in a televised statement. “People around the world no longer need to fear the vicious and determined killer.” 

The United States continues to demonstrate our resolve and our capacity to defend the American people against those who seek to do us harm,” Mr Biden added. 

“We make it clear again tonight that no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out. 

“We will never forget. We continue to mourn every innocent life that was stolen on 9/11 and honour their memories.”

Mr Zawahiri assumed the leadership of the extremist organisation after its founder Osama bin Laden was killed by US Navy special operations troops at his compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, in May 2011 before being dumped at sea.

The killing will be seen as a major boost for Mr Biden ahead of midterm elections, with his approval ratings plummeting among voters.