Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham as a "beloved friend" and a "great patriot" during a recent interview [1].
The tribute highlights the deep strategic and personal ties between the Israeli leadership and the American legislative wing that championed the U.S.-Israeli alliance throughout Graham's career.
Speaking in an exclusive interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, which aired June 7, 2026 [2], Netanyahu reflected on the impact of the senator's death. He said that Graham's "clarity, courage, and convictions were unmatched" [3]. The prime minister said the senator was a pivotal figure in maintaining the security relationship between the two nations.
Graham died at the age of 71 [4]. His tenure in the Senate was marked by a consistent advocacy for Israeli security, and a strong opposition to diplomatic concessions that he believed would jeopardize the state of Israel.
Netanyahu said that the world mourned the loss of a champion of the U.S.-Israeli alliance [5]. He said that Graham's commitment to the partnership was a cornerstone of his political identity and a source of strength for the Israeli government.
The interview took place at the Meet the Press studio in Washington, D.C. [1]. Netanyahu said that the bond between the U.S. and Israel remains a critical pillar of regional stability, regardless of the individuals occupying specific political seats.
Throughout the conversation, the prime minister focused on the personal friendship he shared with the senator. He said that the loss was felt not only as a political blow, but as a personal tragedy for those who worked closely with the senator in the pursuit of shared geopolitical goals [1].
“He was a great patriot and a beloved friend.”
The public mourning of Lindsey Graham by Benjamin Netanyahu underscores the importance of individual legislative champions in maintaining the U.S.-Israel special relationship. Graham served as a primary bridge between the Israeli executive branch and the U.S. Senate; his passing removes a high-profile advocate for unconditional support of Israeli security interests in Washington.
