Israel’s man in the US has died

US Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent Republican known for his steadfast support of Israel and his role as a key advocate for the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, has died at the age of 71. His office confirmed his passing late Saturday, attributing it to a "sudden and brief illness."

A Vocal Supporter of Israel

Graham had long been one of Israel's most vocal champions in the US Congress, consistently calling for enhanced American military and diplomatic support for Tel Aviv. He controversially compared Israel's military actions in Gaza to the US nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, arguing that Israel had the right to use nuclear weapons to win its wars. In a 2024 interview, he stated that "Israel has the right to win the war, and they should win it," adding that he would support any method necessary. He was also a staunch advocate for crippling sanctions on Iran's nuclear program and was a vocal proponent of military action against Tehran.

Reactions and Political Implications

Following his death, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement expressing deep sorrow, calling Graham "a true friend of Israel and a great American patriot." He was joined by other Israeli officials and opposition leaders who mourned the loss of a key ally. While Graham's passing is not expected to immediately shift the Senate's political balance, his absence could affect narrow votes on critical legislation where his influence was pivotal.

Context of His Final Days

Graham had just celebrated his birthday on Thursday and had returned from a visit to Ukraine earlier in the week. His sudden cardiac arrest at his Capitol Hill residence on Saturday evening came as a shock, as there had been no public indication of prior health issues. His death marks the end of a political career spanning over two decades in the Senate, during which he was a leading voice on foreign policy and defense.