Key Takeaways
- US Senator Lindsey Graham died on Saturday aged 71 due to a brief and sudden illness.
- Graham was a key supporter of the US-Israeli war on Iran and backed Kyiv in its fight against Russia's invasion.
- President Donald Trump paid tribute, calling Graham 'one of the greatest people' he has known.
US Senator Lindsey Graham, who played a pivotal role as an ally to President Donald Trump, passed away on Saturday at the age of 71 following a sudden and brief illness. His office announced his death via a statement on his official X account.
Graham was known for his strong stance in foreign policy, particularly supporting the US-Israeli war against Iran and advocating for Ukraine's fight against Russia’s invasion. His relationship with Trump evolved from a critic to an ally over time, as evidenced by their contrasting views during the 2016 presidential campaign and the January 6, 2021 Capitol insurrection.
In his final days, Graham reconciled with Trump after the latter's impeachment trial, supporting his re-election bid. President Donald Trump paid tribute to Graham on Sunday, describing him as 'one of the greatest people' he has ever known. He wrote: 'Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!'
Graham's political career spanned several decades, beginning with his election to the US House of Representatives in 1994 before being elected to the Senate in 2002. He served multiple terms as senator and held the position of chairman of the Senate Budget Committee.
His military background also played a significant role in shaping his political views. Graham was a military lawyer who attained the rank of air force colonel, which influenced his interventionist stance on foreign policy issues such as supporting military action against Iraq post-9/11 and advocating for a long-term US presence in Afghanistan.
Graham's support extended beyond domestic politics to international relations. He was a strong advocate for Israel, often described by Israeli leaders as a 'great friend' and a 'true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership.' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences, stating: ‘Lindsey is a great friend of Israel and a cherished friend of mine.’
Israeli President Isaac Herzog echoed similar sentiments in a statement on X, saying: ‘Senator Graham was a beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership. We will never forget how he stood by the people of Israel in our most difficult moments, and we will remain eternally grateful for his sense of justice, truth, and loyalty.’
The passing of Senator Lindsey Graham marks the end of an era in American politics, leaving a legacy marked by his unwavering support for key foreign policy initiatives and his complex relationship with President Trump.
'Senator Lindsey Graham, one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known, is dead! He was always working, and was a true American Patriot. Lindsey will be greatly missed!!!'
Donald Trump, President
'Lindsey is a great friend of Israel and a cherished friend of mine.'
Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel
'Senator Graham was a beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership. We will never forget how he stood by the people of Israel in our most difficult moments, and we will remain eternally grateful for his sense of justice, truth, and loyalty.'
Isaac Herzog, President of Israel
