Lindsey Graham's Last Words: 'I Can't Die Now' Amidst Unfinished Business
Senator Lindsey Graham's last phone call was a frantic plea, declaring, "I can't die now," as he faced unfinished business in foreign policy. His unexpected death came on a Saturday, following weeks of intense efforts to normalize relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
In a conversation with President Donald Trump just before his death, Graham provided updates on his recent visit to Ukraine and expressed urgency over a Russia sanctions bill he wanted the Senate to address. Trump noted that Graham sounded exhausted, attributing it to his relentless work ethic.
On the evening of his death, Graham informed Trump about escalating tensions with Iran, as Trump prepared to launch additional strikes against Iranian targets after attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
After speaking with Trump, Graham confided in a close associate that he felt unwell. Despite suggestions to seek medical attention, he insisted he would wait until Sunday morning after a scheduled appearance on NBC's Meet the Press.
Graham's declaration of "I can't die now" underscored his commitment to pressing issues like the Russia sanctions and the Israeli-Saudi normalization effort. He viewed this normalization as a cornerstone for a post-war settlement in the Middle East, believing it could reshape the region beyond military conflicts.
His work on this initiative spanned years, dating back to the Biden administration. Graham believed that Iran's weakening position could present President Trump with a unique opportunity to broker a significant agreement.
As a key advisor outside the administration, Graham was a trusted voice for Trump on foreign policy and national security matters, particularly regarding Iran. He had been in discussions with influential figures such as Ron Dermer, the Saudi Ambassador to Washington, Princess Reema bint Bandar, and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan to facilitate an agreement.
Graham also aimed to coordinate with Trump’s team to communicate expectations to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders regarding progress toward an Israeli commitment to a future Palestinian state.
In June, during a conference call, Trump urged leaders from various Arab and Muslim nations to establish relations with Israel if an agreement could be reached to end the war with Iran.
