Following the announcement of his unexpected death on Sunday, numerous Israeli politicians expressed condolences via social media for the Republican U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his spouse, Sara, issued a statement on Sunday lamenting Graham’s passing.
In the statement, Netanyahu noted that Graham recognized the indivisible security interests of Israel and the United States, dedicating his life to protecting America, bolstering the bilateral alliance, and advocating for the free world. He added that Israel had lost a phenomenal friend, America a steadfast patriot, and he personally a cherished companion.
The prime minister conveyed sympathies to Graham’s family and the American public, expressing hope that Graham’s principles and efforts would keep steering the path to peace and triumph, and that his legacy would be eternally honored.
“The sudden death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham—an eminent American patriot, a steadfast ally of Israel, and a personal friend—has left me astonished and deeply sorrowful,” President Isaac Herzog posted on X/Twitter Sunday morning.
Herzog praised Graham as a paragon of moral conviction and an authentic leader in fostering the U.S.–Israel partnership.
Herzog emphasized that Israel would forever recall Graham’s solidarity during the nation’s gravest crises and remain thankful for his justice, honesty, and fidelity. He affirmed that Israelis mourn the loss and that he would profoundly miss his dear friend.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated in an English post on X Sunday that Israel had been deprived of one of its most devoted supporters.
Ben-Gvir wrote that Graham backed Israel out of conviction rather than convenience, with his resolute support and bravery earning the respect of countless Israelis. He pledged that the country would never forget the senator’s friendship and firm dedication to its security.
He closed by extending sympathy to Graham’s relatives and the American citizenry.
He expressed the sentiment that Graham’s memory should be revered as a blessing.
Defense Minister Israel Katz likewise conveyed profound sorrow regarding Graham’s death.
Katz characterized the senator as among Israel’s most robust and unswerving advocates, consistently voicing backing for the nation’s security and its inherent right to self-defense.
The minister highlighted that after the October 7 atrocities, Graham visited Israel repeatedly, showing remarkable solidarity with its citizens during a profoundly dark period, which underscored his deep commitment to the Jewish state’s peaceful and secure existence.
In a separate X post, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar recalled habitually referring to Graham as the finest senator and closest friend.
Sa’ar depicted Graham as a warm-hearted individual with distinctive charisma, blessed with pragmatic insight and genuine adherence to principles, whose backing for Israel remained constant.
He concluded that Israel had lost a tremendous ally and assured that the senator’s legacy would remain unforgotten.
Graham Remained at Israel’s Side During Its Gravest Times
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett resonated with these sentiments in his own X message.
Bennett wrote that he was devastated by the death of his friend Senator Graham, noting that America lost a dedicated patriot and Israel a paramount friend. He recounted Graham’s courageous stand with Israel in its toughest moments and offered condolences to the family.
Opposition Leader Yair Lapid added that Graham exhibited immutable moral clarity, profound dedication to Israelis, and a lucid outlook for a stable, peaceful Middle East.
Lapid remarked that Graham’s warmth, wit, and vitality would be sorely missed, and he extended prayers to the bereaved family.
Shas party chairman Arye Deri, representing the ultra-Orthodox community, also expressed deep sorrow over the senator’s passing, hailing him as one of the state’s greatest friends and a righteous figure of the generation.
Deri credited Graham with bravely supporting Israel, relentlessly countering the Iranian threat and terrorism, and substantially reinforcing the strategic U.S.–Israel alliance.
A Truly Unique Figure
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana posted condolences on Sunday from the legislature to Graham’s family and the state of South Carolina.
Ohana described Graham as exceptionally witty and intelligent, a stellar friend to Israel and to himself, and a singular personality who would be greatly missed. He bade farewell and gratitude for championing noble causes.
Samaria Regional Council leader Yossi Dagan issued a statement expressing inundation with grief at Graham’s sudden death, applauding the senator’s affection for Israel and his idealism.
Dagan portrayed Graham as a sincere admirer of Israel and an idealist driven by Christian conviction that Jews should return to their homeland, laboring for decades to fortify the transatlantic bond. He noted that Graham continually blessed Israel with wholehearted devotion.
Dagan further highlighted Graham’s identity as an avowed supporter of Samaria and his role as an official co-host of the recent West Bank policy conference in Washington.
Additional condolences were extended by Innovation, Science and Technology Minister Gila Gamliel, Yisrael Beytenu chairman Avigdor Liberman, and Likud MK Eli Cohen.
