Lindsey Graham, One of Israel’s Closest Allies in Congress, Dies at 71
Republican U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina passed away at the age of 71 following what his office initially described as a “brief and sudden illness.” • Read More, Watch
Republican U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina passed away at the age of 71 following what his office initially described as a “brief and sudden illness.”
Preliminary findings from the medical examiner indicate he died from an aortic dissection caused by chronic heart disease. Graham had represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2003 and was one of the most influential Republican voices on national security and foreign policy.
For decades, Graham was regarded as one of Israel’s strongest supporters in Congress and among the Jewish community. A steadfast advocate of the U.S.-Israel alliance, he consistently championed military aid to Israel, backed funding for missile defense systems including Iron Dome, led efforts to combat the BDS movement, and was among the Senate’s most outspoken voices against Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
Following the October 7 Hamas massacre, Graham repeatedly visited Israel, met with hostage families, and forcefully defended Israel’s right to eliminate Hamas and protect its citizens.
Even in his final weeks, Graham remained deeply engaged in Middle East affairs. He was actively promoting efforts to expand the Abraham Accords through Saudi-Israeli normalization while continuing to advocate for a firm American stance against Iran.
Israeli leaders led the international tributes following news of his passing. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Graham as “one of Israel’s greatest friends,” adding, “Lindsey understood that the security of Israel and America are inseparable. Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend.”
President Isaac Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and numerous other Israeli officials also honored Graham as a loyal friend who stood by Israel throughout his decades of public service.
President Donald Trump described Graham as “a great man, a great patriot, and a great friend.” He said the South Carolina senator “loved our Country, loved the people of South Carolina, and loved the military like few others.” Trump called Graham “one of the finest minds in Washington,” saying he was “always there when it mattered,” and ordered U.S. flags flown at half-staff nationwide in his honor.
Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas called Graham “a fearless patriot, a devoted public servant, and one of the fiercest advocates for freedom and American strength.” He praised his longtime Senate colleague for his unwavering commitment to the nation’s security and foreign policy, adding that “Lindsey loved America, fought tirelessly for our allies, and dedicated his life to public service. Heidi and I are praying for his family and for the people of South Carolina as they mourn this tremendous loss.”
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