'One of Israel's greatest friends': Israeli politicians eulogize Senator Lindsey Graham
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Israeli politicians expressed shock and sorrow over the sudden death of US Senator Lindsey Graham, remembering him as a staunch supporter of Israel.
- Leaders from across the political spectrum highlighted Graham's unwavering commitment to Israel's security and his role in strengthening US-Israel ties.
- Graham was lauded for his moral clarity and for standing with Israel during difficult times, particularly after the October 7th events.
Israeli politicians across the political spectrum took to social media to mourn the passing of Republican US Senator Lindsey Graham, who died suddenly on Sunday. President Isaac Herzog described Graham as a "great American patriot, a great friend of Israel, and my dear friend," calling him a "beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the US-Israel partnership."
I am shocked and heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of the great American patriot, a great friend of Israel, and my dear friend US Senator Lindsey Graham.
Herzog expressed deep gratitude for Graham's support during Israel's most challenging moments, stating, "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 that the people of Israel mourn his loss and that he would miss his friend dearly.
National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir declared that Israel had lost "one of its greatest friends." In an English-language post, Ben-Gvir wrote, "Senator Lindsey Graham stood with Israel not because it was easy, but because he believed it was right. His unwavering support, courage, and moral clarity earned him the admiration of millions of Israelis."
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.
Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett echoed these sentiments, calling Graham "America's devoted patriot, and Israel has lost one of its greatest friends." Bennett recalled Graham's courage in standing with Israel "through our darkest hours." Defense Minister Israel Katz also expressed deep sadness, characterizing Graham as one of Israel's "strongest and most steadfast supporters" and an "unwavering voice in support of Israelโs security and its right to defend itself."
Israel lost 'one of its greatest friends.'
Katz specifically mentioned Graham's repeated visits to Israel following the October 7th massacre as an "extraordinary demonstration of solidarity and unwavering friendship." Samaria Regional Council Head Yossi Dagan praised Graham for his idealism and his belief, rooted in his Christian faith, that Jews should return to the Land of Israel, noting Graham's decades of work strengthening the bond between Israel and the United States.
Senator Lindsey Graham stood with Israel not because it was easy, but because he believed it was right. His unwavering support, courage, and moral clarity earned him the admiration of millions of Israelis.
Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.