US senator Lindsey Graham dies at 71

Published July 12th, 2026 - 06:44 GMT
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham
U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) looks on during a press conference at the U.S. Capitol on April 27, 2026, in Washington, DC. Photo by HEATHER DIEHL / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

ALBAWABA - U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who is known for being a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, died at the age of 71 on Saturday.

The Office of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) released a statement on Sunday: "On the evening of Saturday, July 11, U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness. Senator Graham's family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period."

According to NBC News, emergency personnel were called over a "cardiac arrest" at Graham's Capitol Hill home. 

Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir mourned the death of Lindsey Graham and wrote on X, "The State of Israel will always remember his friendship, his unwavering support, and his steadfast commitment to Israel’s security."

Ben-Gvir added, "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."