US Senator Lindsey Graham Honored in Washington Ceremony Attended by Netanyahu and Trump

The funeral of Republican Senator Lindsey Graham took place on Tuesday evening at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., drawing tens of thousands of Americans including members of Congress, senators, governors, cabinet ministers, and President Donald Trump. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attended the ceremony following a meeting with Trump at the White House. Netanyahu warmly spoke with Graham's sister, Darlin Graham Nordon, and other attendees, who praised the senator's extraordinary legacy and reaffirmed their commitment to fighting antisemitism and strengthening the unbreakable US-Israel alliance.

Netanyahu described Graham as "a great American patriot and one of Israel's closest friends and supporters," emphasizing his dedication to the security of both nations and his relentless fight against antisemitism. President Isaac Herzog also expressed shock and sorrow, calling Graham a "beacon of moral clarity" and a true leader of the US-Israel partnership who stood by Israel during its most difficult moments.

Throughout his political career, Graham was a staunch supporter of Israel. In 2016, he pushed for an additional $3.4 billion in US security aid to Israel. In 2024, during the ongoing conflict, he visited Israel and sharply criticized the Biden administration's decision to delay weapons shipments. He also vowed to impose sanctions on countries enforcing International Criminal Court arrest warrants against Netanyahu and other Israeli officials, framing the ICC actions as attempts to prevent a second Holocaust.

Graham was critical of the Israeli government's brief appointment of Eli Sharvit as head of the Shin Bet, calling it "beyond problematic." He influenced President Trump’s Iran policy, condemning the Iranian regime for sponsoring terrorism and human rights abuses. He declared unwavering support for Israel’s survival and condemned Iran’s calls for America’s destruction. Graham’s legacy is marked by his passionate defense of Israel and his commitment to US national security.

Summary: Republican Senator Lindsey Graham was honored at a large funeral in Washington attended by President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, who praised Graham as a devoted friend of Israel and a great American patriot. Graham’s career was marked by strong support for Israel, opposition to Iran, and efforts to combat antisemitism. President Herzog also paid tribute to his moral leadership and steadfast partnership with Israel.