Lindsey Graham, a prominent Republican U.S. Senator from South Carolina, has died at the age of 71 following a brief and sudden illness. His media office confirmed the death of the veteran senator.
Graham had represented South Carolina in the U.S. Senate since 2003 and, as a well-known figure within the Republican Party, played a significant role in debates on foreign policy, national security, and defense affairs. Before entering politics, he served as a legal officer in the U.S. Air Force and attained the rank of colonel in the Air Force Reserve.
During the period of U.S. military involvement in Afghanistan, the Republican senator supported the continuation of the American mission and became one of the leading critics of the withdrawal of U.S. forces during the administration of President Joe Biden. Graham repeatedly warned that a complete withdrawal of U.S. troops could create conditions for the resurgence of groups such as al-Qaeda and ISIS.
During Donald Trump’s first presidency, Graham was considered one of Trump’s outspoken critics; however, in later years, he became one of Trump’s closest allies in Congress. In recent years, he also supported many of Trump’s positions and policies, particularly in the areas of national security and foreign policy.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
