Israeli President Isaac Herzog described the late U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) as a "loyal friend of Israel" following Graham's death [1].
The tribute highlights the deep ties between the Israeli government and high-ranking U.S. Republican officials who have historically championed Israeli security and diplomatic interests.
Graham died Saturday, June 6, 2024 [2], at the age of 71 [2]. The announcement and subsequent tribute from President Herzog were released via the Israeli President’s official X account [1].
Hertzog said Graham was one of the most prominent defenders of Israel [3]. The senator was known for his outspoken support of the Jewish state and his role as a close ally of former President Donald Trump [3].
Reports from Al Jazeera Arabic and MSN Arabic noted that the senator's advocacy was a cornerstone of his legislative identity [1, 3]. The presidential statement served as a formal acknowledgement of the senator's influence on U.S.-Israel relations during his tenure in the Senate.
Graham's career was marked by a consistent alignment with Israeli strategic goals, a position that earned him significant respect within the Israeli political establishment [3]. This relationship was further solidified through his close coordination with various Israeli administrations over several decades.
“Graham was a loyal friend of Israel”
The death of Senator Graham removes a key ideological bridge between the U.S. Republican party and the Israeli government. His legacy as a 'loyal friend' underscores the reliance of the Israeli state on individual high-profile champions in the U.S. Congress to ensure consistent military and diplomatic support, regardless of the broader political climate in Washington.
