Israel's Knesset paused proceedings Wednesday to honor the late Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., with a solemn moment of silence, as lawmakers from across the political spectrum paid tribute to one of Israel's strongest and most consistent allies in the U.S. Congress.
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana introduced the tribute by asking members to stand in memory of the longtime senator.
"In honor of one of the greatest friends the state of Israel has ever had, members of the Knesset from both sides of the aisle will now rise for a moment of silence to pay our respects to the legendary Sen. Lindsey Graham.
"May his memory be a blessing," he said.
Ohana made his statement before lawmakers observed the silence.
The tribute underscored Graham's decadeslong reputation in Israel as one of America's most outspoken supporters of the Jewish state.
Throughout his Senate career, Graham repeatedly championed U.S. military aid to Israel, backed expanded security cooperation, and was a leading advocate for confronting Iran and other regional threats.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who maintained a close personal friendship with Graham, issued an emotional statement this week following the senator's death.
"Sara and I grieve with the American people over the loss of our dear friend, Senator Lindsey Graham," Netanyahu said.
"Lindsey understood that the security of Israel and America are inseparable. He devoted his life to defending America, strengthening our alliance and standing up for the free world."
Netanyahu added, "Israel has lost one of its greatest friends. America has lost a great patriot. I have lost a beloved friend."
Israeli President Isaac Herzog also mourned Graham's passing, describing him as a true friend of Israel and one of the country's strongest supporters.
Defense Minister Israel Katz and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar likewise issued tributes recognizing Graham's unwavering commitment to Israel's security and the U.S.-Israel alliance.
Graham died suddenly Saturday after a brief illness caused by an aortic dissection, according to the District of Columbia's chief medical examiner.
His death at age 71 shocked Washington and allies overseas, coming just days after he remained active on foreign policy matters and following recent travel abroad.
Few American lawmakers have received such a public parliamentary tribute in Israel.
Wednesday's ceremony reflected Graham's standing among Israeli leaders, who viewed him not only as a reliable political ally, but also as a personal friend whose support endured through multiple conflicts and administrations.
The moment of silence came as Israel prepares to send senior officials, including Netanyahu, to Graham's funeral in the U.S., another sign of the extraordinary relationship the South Carolina senator built with the Jewish state over more than three decades in public life.