US Senator Lindsey Graham dies at 71

Prominent United States Senator Lindsey Graham, a key ally of President Donald Trump, has died at the age of 71 following a “brief and sudden illness,” his office has announced.

The Republican senator from South Carolina’s office said in a statement on his official X account that Graham died on the evening of Saturday, July 11.

“Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period,” the statement said.

Graham was first elected to the US House of Representatives in 1994 before being elected to the Senate in 2002.

He was re-elected to the Senate in 2008, 2014 and 2020, and most recently served as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster described Graham as “irreplaceable” in a post on X.

“The fiercest of fighters for South Carolina and America — and a loyal and steadfast friend,” McMaster said.

Graham was also known for his strong support for Israel and his hawkish position on Iran.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he was “shocked and heartbroken” by the news of Graham’s death.

“Senator Graham was a beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the U.S.-Israel partnership,” Herzog said in a post on X.

“We will never forget how he stood by the people of Israel in our most difficult moments, and we will remain eternally grateful for his sense of justice, truth and loyalty,” he added.

“The people of Israel mourn his loss, and I will miss my great friend very dearly.”

AFP