US Senator Lindsey Graham Dies at 71 After Sudden Illness

Prominent Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has died at the age of 71 following what his office described as a brief and sudden illness, prompting tributes from political leaders in the United States and abroad.

The announcement was made in a statement posted on the senator’s official X account on Saturday.

“On the evening of Saturday, July 11, US Senator Lindsey Graham passed away from a brief and sudden illness,” the statement said. His office added that the Graham family appreciated prayers and requested privacy during what it described as an incredibly difficult time.

Graham had been one of the most recognisable figures in American politics for decades and was widely known as a close ally of President Donald Trump. Representing South Carolina in the US Senate, he built a reputation as an influential voice on national security, foreign policy and judicial appointments during his years in Congress.

President Donald Trump paid tribute to the late senator on Sunday, describing him as one of the finest public servants he had known.

In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump said Graham was “one of the greatest people and Senators” he had ever known and praised him as a dedicated public servant and a true American patriot. He added that Graham would be greatly missed.

Tributes also came from senior Israeli leaders, reflecting Graham’s longstanding support for Israel and his close ties with the country’s leadership.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog honoured Graham as a trusted friend of Israel, while Defence Minister Israel Katz and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also expressed condolences in separate messages on X. Former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett joined the tributes, describing the senator as one of Israel’s strongest supporters in Washington.

Throughout his political career, Graham consistently backed strong US-Israel relations and frequently advocated for close strategic cooperation between the two countries. His positions on defence, Middle East policy and national security made him a prominent figure in both domestic and international political discussions.

Graham served South Carolina in the US Senate for many years after previously representing the state in the House of Representatives. During his time in office, he played a leading role on several Senate committees and became one of the Republican Party’s most influential lawmakers.

Details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services have not yet been released.

Political figures from across the United States are expected to pay further tribute in the coming days as colleagues, supporters and international leaders remember Graham’s decades of public service and his influence on American politics.

His office has asked that the family’s privacy be respected while they mourn his passing.