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US Senator Lindsey Graham died on Saturday at the age of 71, following what his office described as a “brief and sudden illness.” His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from American and Israeli leaders, who remembered him as a steadfast ally of Israel and a champion of US military power and close alliances.
Coverage comparison
The Jerusalem Post reported on Graham’s death in two separate articles. The first, published on July 13, 2026, focused on his final trip to Kyiv and his broader legacy as a supporter of Israel and Ukraine. The second, published on July 12, 2026, centered on the reactions of Israeli politicians, who took to social media to mourn his passing. Both articles emphasized Graham’s close ties to Israel and his role as a key figure in US-Israel relations.
Key claims
According to the Jerusalem Post, Graham was in Kyiv two days before his death, discussing Russian sanctions, Ukraine’s air-defense needs, and the future of American support. It was his 10th visit to Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. The report described his routine as traveling to allied countries, meeting their leaders, and then returning to Washington to advocate for their causes.
Graham was widely recognized as a strong supporter of both Israel and Ukraine. He had a close relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and he was known for his relentless pursuit of issues such as the Taylor Force Act. His understanding of Israel’s security concerns was developed through repeated visits to the region.
Israeli leaders mourned Graham’s death on social media. President Isaac Herzog called him a “beacon of moral clarity and a true leader of the US-Israel partnership,” adding that “the people of Israel mourn his loss.” National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said that Graham “stood with Israel not because it was easy, but because he believed it was right.” Former prime minister Naftali Bennett expressed his heartbreak, saying that “America has lost a devoted patriot, and Israel has lost a great friend.”
US President Donald Trump called Graham “one of the greatest people and senators I have ever known,” describing him as a tireless worker and “a true American patriot.” Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized Graham’s military service and his belief that American strength could be used to support democratic allies abroad. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster remembered him as a relentless fighter for both his state and the country, saying, “We shall not see his likes again.”
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Lindsey understood that the security of Israel and America are inseparable. Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot.”
Graham’s office announced his death on social media on Sunday, but did not immediately disclose an official cause of death.
Perspectives
Israeli leadership
Israeli officials, including President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, expressed deep sorrow and gratitude for Graham’s unwavering support. They highlighted his moral clarity and his commitment to Israel’s security, describing him as a great friend who stood by the country in its darkest hours.
US political figures
US President Donald Trump, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster paid tribute to Graham’s patriotism, his military service, and his dedication to American strength and alliances. They emphasized his tireless work ethic and his belief in using American power to support democratic allies.