Lindsey Graham’s legacy: Israel advocate, Trump ally, Iran war supporter

Senator Lindsey Graham, who recently passed away, was a prominent Republican known for his hawkish foreign policy, unwavering support for Israel, and close alliance with former President Donald Trump. Throughout his career, Graham advocated for military interventions, including the 2003 Iraq War and the recent war on Iran. He consistently called for unlimited US support for Israel, often exceeding what Israeli officials requested, and secured an additional $1 billion in military aid in 2021. Graham's pro-Israel stance sometimes led to controversial statements, such as comparing Palestinians to Nazis and suggesting the use of nuclear weapons, stating, "Israel, do whatever you have to do to survive as a Jewish state."

• Graham's legacy is defined by his advocacy for military solutions and his staunch support for Donald Trump, despite initially calling Trump a "race-baiting, xenophobic religious bigot" during the 2016 campaign.
• He was instrumental in pushing for military action against Iran, even having Trump sign a "Make Iran Great Again" hat.
• Israeli officials, including Benjamin Netanyahu and Itamar Ben-Gvir, eulogized Graham, with Netanyahu noting Graham's extreme dedication to Israel's security.
• Graham's interventionist views, particularly on foreign policy and military campaigns, represented a segment of the Republican Party that is increasingly scrutinized, especially by younger generations.