US Senator Lindsey Graham dies at 71

Veteran United States Senator Lindsey Graham, a longtime Republican lawmaker and close ally of President Donald Trump, has died at the age of 71 following a brief illness.

His office announced his death in a statement on Saturday, saying Graham passed away after a “brief and sudden illness.” The family expressed appreciation for the outpouring of prayers and requested privacy during the period of mourning.

Graham began his political career in the U.S. House of Representatives after his election in 1994 before winning a Senate seat in 2002. He went on to secure re-election in 2008, 2014 and 2020, serving in several influential roles, including chairman of the Senate Budget Committee.

Reacting to the news, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster described Graham as an unwavering advocate for both his state and the United States, calling him “irreplaceable” and praising his loyalty and dedication.

Graham was widely known for his strong support for Israel and his hawkish foreign policy positions, particularly on Iran. Israeli President Isaac Herzog paid tribute to the late senator, describing him as a steadfast friend of Israel whose commitment to the U.S.-Israel relationship would be remembered for years to come.