UPDATE: Senator Lindsey Graham is calling for a formal U.S.-Israel defense pact during his visit to Israel, emphasizing that such an agreement is crucial for enhancing national security. Graham’s remarks follow meetings with Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, and come amid ongoing tensions in the region.
In a press conference held on October 15, 2023, Graham asserted that strong support for Israel remains a cornerstone of the Republican Party, countering claims of waning backing among GOP members. “There is no strong anti-Israel movement in the Republican Party,” he stated, reinforcing that over three-quarters of Republican voters in his home state of South Carolina favor the U.S.-Israel relationship.
Graham highlighted the strategic benefits of U.S. aid to Israel, claiming it yields “tenfold” returns in critical areas such as intelligence, counterterrorism, and advanced technology, particularly in artificial intelligence. He emphasized that Israel’s military capabilities provide essential support that the U.S. cannot replicate, stating, “If Israeli intelligence disappeared tomorrow, America would be blind in the region.”
Graham described Israel as one of America’s most valuable allies, stating, “Israel does more to keep America safe than almost any other ally.” He urged for a formal defense agreement to solidify cooperation beyond the shifting political landscape, framing Israel’s strength as directly beneficial to U.S. interests.
“It is in America’s interest that Israel survive, thrive, and remain militarily and economically strong,” Graham stated. “The better Israel does, the better America does.”
Addressing security threats, Graham warned that Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran are interconnected threats that undermine regional stability. He accused Hamas of using ceasefires to strengthen its position in Gaza rather than seeking peace, stating, “Hamas has used the ceasefire not to disarm, but to rearm.”
Graham called for decisive action against these groups, insisting that Hamas must be placed on a timetable to disarm, with U.S. backing for Israeli military action if they fail to comply. He also condemned the Iranian regime, warning that their ambitions remain unchanged despite setbacks to their nuclear capabilities.
“Appeasement does not lead to peace,” Graham warned, emphasizing that Iran is “bent on destroying Israel and attacking America.”
He concluded by paying tribute to the victims of the October 7 massacre and expressed hope that swift actions now could lead to a transformative shift in the region. Graham’s urgent appeal for a U.S.-Israel defense pact is set against a backdrop of escalating geopolitical tensions and a heightened focus on security cooperation.
This developing situation will be closely monitored, as Graham’s proposal could reshape U.S. foreign policy and military strategy in the Middle East.
