Israel Mourns Loss of a Beloved Friend: Netanyahu Pays Tribute to Senator Lindsey Graham

A solemn tribute has been paid by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the late Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a long-time stalwart ally of the Jewish state. In a heartfelt statement released on Wednesday, Netanyahu expressed his deep condolences to Senator Graham’s family and to the American people, describing him as a “dear friend” and “one of Israel’s greatest supporters.”

Senator Graham, a Republican who served in the United States Senate for over two decades, passed away on Tuesday, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering dedication to the values of freedom, democracy, and security. Throughout his illustrious career, he was a steadfast advocate for the strategic partnership between Israel and the United States, recognizing that the security of both nations is fundamentally intertwined.

In a personal tribute released on social media, Netanyahu recalled his recent meeting with Senator Graham, where he hailed him as a “great friend of Israel” and “a cherished friend of mine.” Praising his late friend’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of both nations, Netanyahu said: “We have no better friend than Lindsey.” The Israeli Prime Minister acknowledged that Senator Graham’s loss is a profound blow to the state of Israel, which has “lost one of its greatest friends.”

Similarly, his passing is a tremendous loss for the United States, Netanyahu stated, observing that America has lost “a great patriot.” Netanyahu went on to lament the loss of his own “beloved friend,” Lindsey Graham, with whom he shared a deep and abiding friendship built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared understanding of the imperative of security cooperation between Israel and the United States.

The close relationship between Senator Graham and Prime Minister Netanyahu reflected the enduring bonds of friendship and shared values between the two nations. Senator Graham was a prominent champion of key legislation and initiatives that have strengthened ties between Washington and Tel Aviv, and his leadership played a pivotal role in promoting a united front against shared adversaries, including Iran.

The outpouring of tributes from world leaders and dignitaries has underscored the significant contribution Senator Graham made to international diplomacy and cooperation, particularly through his stalwart support for Israel and the Jewish people. In paying tribute to his beloved friend, Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged the profound impact Lindsey Graham had on the strategic landscape of the United States and the Middle East.