Senator Lindsey Graham, Israel's staunch ally, dies

Senator Lindsey Graham's death this weekend has left a void in Washington for Israel, which has lost one of its most steadfast and vocal supporters. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu lauded Graham as a friend to Israel and a patriot to America, emphasizing the inseparable nature of their security.

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the security of Israel and America are inseparable. Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend.

President Isaac Herzog described Graham as a "beacon of moral clarity" and a "true leader" of the US-Israel partnership, recalling his unwavering support during Israel's most challenging times. Graham's commitment to Israel was not merely rhetorical; it was demonstrated through decades of legislative action, military assistance, frequent visits, and a consistent willingness to defend the Jewish state.

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a beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the US-Israel partnership

Graham's stance on Israel's security was clear. During a 2011 visit, he rejected the idea of Israel returning to pre-1967 borders, deeming them indefensible. He also worked to reassure Israelis of Congress's unwavering support, stating, "Quite frankly, Congress has Israel’s back." This sentiment defined much of his career, as he balanced criticism of Israeli policy with the fundamental belief in Israel as a vital democratic ally.

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From my point of view, I can never imagine an agreement that goes back to the ’67 boundaries because, in my view, those boundaries are indefensible.

His support translated into tangible actions, such as co-sponsoring legislation to counter boycotts of Israel in 2009. Graham was also a vocal critic of Iran's nuclear ambitions, supporting military action as a last resort. He repeatedly highlighted the bipartisan unity in Congress regarding Israel, calling it "one of our best allies in the world."

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The purpose of this trip is to try and reinforce, from my point of view, the unwavering support that the State of Israel has in Congress. Quite frankly, Congress has Israel’s back.