Senator Lindsey Graham Advanced Israel-Saudi Normalization Plan Before His Death

In the weeks leading up to his death, Republican Senator Lindsey Graham was actively working on a new initiative to promote a peace agreement between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Graham viewed normalization between the two countries as a transformative move for Middle East dynamics, potentially more impactful than conflict with Iran. He planned a diplomatic blitz in coordination with the Trump administration, aiming to finalize an agreement after the upcoming elections in Israel (October) and the US midterms (November), but before the new Congress convenes in January.

Graham emphasized that resolving the conflict with Iran, particularly reopening the Strait of Hormuz, was essential for progress. He urged former President Trump to consider a short, decisive military operation if diplomacy failed. Throughout May, Graham discussed the normalization plan with Trump and his envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, aligning their efforts. He also engaged with Israeli and Saudi officials, including Netanyahu's associate Ron Dermer, Saudi Ambassador Princess Reema, and Foreign Minister Prince Faisal. Graham intended to visit both countries soon to assess willingness for the deal and hoped to begin formal work by September.

The plan faced significant political challenges. In the US, ratifying a US-Saudi defense pact required a two-thirds Senate majority, which Graham believed was only feasible during the post-election lame-duck session. To secure bipartisan support, the agreement would need to address the Palestinian issue, including Israeli commitments toward a future Palestinian state and concrete steps on the ground. This created a parallel challenge in Israel, where the right-wing government led by Netanyahu opposed such conditions. Graham planned to pressure Israeli political leaders to accept US expectations for progress.

On the evening before his death, Graham spoke with Trump about his recent Ukraine visit and upcoming sanctions on Russia. Trump mentioned plans for renewed strikes against Iran following attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Shortly after, Graham, feeling unwell, postponed seeking medical help until after a scheduled interview. He joked about unfinished business, including sanctions on Russia, resolving Iran, and achieving Israel-Saudi normalization. He passed away hours later.