Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) died on Saturday, July 11, at the age of 71 due to a brief and sudden illness. The South Carolina Republican was a prominent foreign policy hawk and a staunch advocate for Israel, known for his unwavering support for the U.S.-Israel alliance and his hardline stance against Iran.
Tributes from Israeli Leaders
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Graham as "one of Israel’s greatest friends," praising his decades-long support for the Jewish state. President Isaac Herzog called him a "beacon of moral clarity" and a "true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership." Defense Minister Israel Katz and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir also paid tribute, highlighting Graham’s steadfast commitment to Israel’s security.
Graham’s Foreign Policy Legacy
Graham was a vocal critic of the Iranian regime, advocating for regime change and supporting sanctions. He opposed the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and backed military strikes against Iranian nuclear sites. He also championed the Taylor Force Act, which conditioned U.S. aid to the Palestinian Authority on ending payments to terrorists.
Support for Israel
Graham visited Israel frequently, including during wartime, and was a strong proponent of U.S. military aid to Israel. He opposed Prime Minister Netanyahu’s proposal to phase out U.S. military assistance, arguing that Israel’s security was inseparable from America’s. Graham also cosponsored legislation to combat boycotts targeting Israel and criticized UN resolutions against Israeli settlements.
Advocacy for Iranian Opposition
Graham was a vocal supporter of the Iranian opposition, addressing a rally of Iranian demonstrators in Munich in February 2024. He called for the U.S. to stand with the Iranian people against the regime, describing the ayatollahs as "murderous" and advocating for their removal.
Personal and Political Impact
Graham’s death has left a void in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the realm of Middle East diplomacy. His close friendship with the late Senator John McCain and his collaboration with former President Donald Trump were key aspects of his political career. Colleagues and allies have described him as a man of conviction, moral clarity, and unwavering loyalty to his principles.