U.S. ‌Senator Lindsey ​Graham ⁠passed away at the age of 71 ‌after ⁠a ⁠brief and sudden ​illness, ‌the communications director for ‌his ​office ‌said early on ​Sunday (July 12, 2026).

Mr. Graham, a prominent Republican ⁠senator from South Carolina and a key ally of U.S. President Trump, died on ‌Saturday ‌evening, the office said in a ‌post on X.

“Senator ‌Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and ‌asks for privacy ​during this incredibly ⁠difficult period,” his office ⁠added.

Israeli officials offer condolences

 Israel’s ​top officials ‌on Sunday (July 12, 2026) offered their ​condolences ⁠for the death of ‌Mr. Graham.

Israeli ‌President ⁠Isaac ⁠Herzog, Defense Minister Israel Katz, ​Foreign ‌Minister Gideon Saar and former Prime ‌Minister Naftali Bennett ​were among a ⁠few who called ‌Mr. Graham, in separate X posts, a true friend ‌of Israel ​and one of ⁠its strongest supporters.