Senator Lindsey Graham stood out as a genuine supporter of Israel and a dedicated American patriot. These qualities defined the 71-year-old lawmaker whose recent death marks the close of an era in US politics.

"I will support Israel until my final breath. It remains America's top partner," he shared with me during an interview just months earlier. His backing for the Jewish state stayed consistent throughout his career.

When questioned about Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's suggestion to phase out US military assistance to Israel, Graham labeled the notion "a serious mistake," even as many around him, including fellow Republicans, backed the proposal.

Graham took a firm stance against Iran. He often advocated for regime change and referred to its rulers as "Nazis."

He pressed US President Donald Trump to pursue decisive action and became the first to suggest, ahead of Operation Rising Lion, that the Iranian regime receive a 60-day deadline to dismantle its nuclear ambitions.

'I urge Israel to stay flexible on resolving the conflict'

Trump embraced the concept, prompting Israel to begin its operation on day 61.

Throughout Israel's conflict with Hamas, Graham spoke plainly. "There must be a surrender on the scale of Japan and Germany in World War II. Total and unconditional," he remarked in a follow-up interview.

He maintained that Israel should pursue its battles against hostile forces to their conclusion while simultaneously working toward broader regional ties.

For years, Graham traveled between Riyadh and Jerusalem to foster an accord between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Even following October 7, he persisted in his view that normalization remained possible despite challenges.

He also expressed clearly what he saw as necessary steps for Israel to achieve that goal.

"[Saudi Crown Prince] Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) will not recognize Israel until the Palestinians see improved conditions, or he risks his position. That is reality. Normalization cannot occur if the Palestinians are sidelined," he noted at the Jerusalem Post Annual New York Conference.

"I am not asking Israel to reward terrorism. I am asking Israel to remain flexible on ending the conflict in a manner that secures its safety and enables MBS to advance his region."

Graham proved a reliable friend, always ready to defend Israel publicly. When he offered criticism, it stemmed from sincere concern and goodwill.

Amid calls for US withdrawal from the Middle East, Graham insisted that threats must be confronted directly.

His clear and principled perspective has now gone quiet at a time when such voices are needed most.