America News Agency

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a condolence message following the passing of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham.

In a statement posted on social media, Katz said Graham had been a loyal friend of the State of Israel and one of its strongest supporters, adding that he had received the news of his passing with deep sorrow.

Katz emphasized that Graham had stood by Israel during its most difficult times for many years, worked tirelessly to strengthen the strategic alliance between the United States and Israel, and strongly defended Israel's security and its right to self-defense.

Recalling that Graham had visited Israel several times following the October 7 attacks, Katz said those visits were a powerful demonstration of his solidarity with the Israeli people and his commitment to the Jewish state.

Katz also noted that they had shared a personal friendship, describing the U.S. senator as "an extraordinary leader, a principled statesman, and a valued friend."

The Israeli defense minister concluded his message by extending condolences, on behalf of Israel's defense establishment and the Israeli people, to Graham's family, loved ones, colleagues, and the American people.