Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, one of the most outspoken supporters of Israel in the U.S. Congress, died Saturday evening at the age of 71 after what his office described as a brief and sudden illness.

A statement issued by Graham’s communications director on X confirmed his passing and said, “Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period.”

Emergency crews responded to Graham’s South Carolina home Saturday night following reports of a cardiac arrest, according to police scanner audio obtained by NBC News. Images reviewed by the network showed paramedics transporting an individual from the residence by stretcher as police and fire personnel remained on the scene.

A Lifelong Advocate for Israel

Throughout his Senate career, Graham became one of Israel’s most dependable champions on Capitol Hill, consistently backing military assistance, strengthening U.S.-Israel ties, and advocating for firm action against Iran and regional terrorist organizations. He was a frequent visitor to Israel and regularly defended the country’s security policies during times of conflict.

His support for Israel remained a defining feature of his foreign policy positions, earning him recognition as one of the Jewish state’s closest allies in Washington.

Final Overseas Visit Focused on Ukraine

Just one day before his death, Graham met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv, where the two discussed Ukraine’s air defense requirements and legislation aimed at increasing sanctions on Russia.

During the visit, Graham argued that combining stronger sanctions with continued military support could pressure Moscow into negotiations.

“The road to ending this ⁠war, the road to peace, passes through Beijing more than it does (through) Washington, Kyiv, or Moscow,” Graham told ​reporters at Kyiv’s Mykhailivska Square. “China has ​an oversized influence. I’d like them to use their influence for the good of the world.”

He added, “I don’t believe (Russian President Vladimir) Putin is there yet, but it wouldn’t take much to get him there.”

From Trump Critic to Trusted Ally

Graham served as one of the Republican Party’s most recognizable figures in the Senate, representing South Carolina for more than two decades. Although he initially emerged as a vocal critic of Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential campaign, he later became one of the president’s closest allies and strongest defenders in Congress.

His influence extended across national security, judicial appointments, and foreign affairs, where he often took a hawkish stance on global conflicts.

Military Service and Political Career

Born in Central, South Carolina, in 1955, Graham grew up helping his parents operate a restaurant and pool hall. He became the first member of his family to graduate from college before serving as an Air Force lawyer and later with the South Carolina Air National Guard.

Graham entered Congress after winning election to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1994, representing South Carolina’s 3rd Congressional District. He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2002 and secured reelection in 2008, 2014, and 2020.

At the time of his death, Graham was unmarried and lived in Seneca, South Carolina.

His passing marks the end of a decades-long political career defined by conservative leadership, an assertive foreign policy agenda, unwavering backing for Israel, and a prominent role in shaping Republican national security policy.