Trump declares mourning after Senator Lindsey Graham dies of sudden health issue

ERBIL, Iraq — U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday, July 12, 2026, that Republican Senator Lindsey Graham had died of a sudden health issue. In a post on Truth Social, Trump called Graham "a true American patriot" and one of the most distinguished members of the Senate. Trump said Graham's death caused deep sorrow and that funeral arrangements and condolence programs would be announced in the coming days. Graham was known for his hardline stance against Iranian influence in Iraq and Syria, and he opposed any effort to withdraw American troops from Iraq, arguing that a U.S. presence was a strategic necessity. On Iraq policy, Graham was a vocal supporter of the Kurdistan Region. During a visit to Erbil in July 2022, he met with regional officials to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. His death removes one of the leading congressional voices on Middle East policy from the Republican Party at a time when security and political developments in the region are accelerating.