According to a report by Al Jazeera on July 13, 2026, Iran has reacted sharply to the sudden death of United States Senator Lindsey Graham, describing the longtime South Carolina lawmaker as a figure associated with hostility and confrontation.
Graham, who died unexpectedly at the age of 71, had long been known for his strong support of Israel and his backing of the US-Israel military campaign against Iran.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the Iranian people would not grieve Graham’s passing because of what he described as the senator’s aggressive political outlook.
“Our people will not mourn a man whose philosophy on life was aggression and intimidation,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei.
Baghaei went further in his criticism, accusing the late senator of embodying hostility throughout his political career.
“His entire being was malicious,” he added after several state TV anchors welcomed Graham’s death in broadcasts aired on Sunday.
The spokesman also referred to Graham as “hot-tempered,” reinforcing Tehran’s long-standing criticism of the senator’s approach to foreign policy and his repeated calls for a tougher stance against the Iranian government.
Graham had been one of the most outspoken advocates in the US Senate for increasing pressure on Iran. Over the years, he consistently supported sanctions, military action when deemed necessary, and close strategic cooperation between the United States and Israel.
His death has prompted differing reactions internationally. While political leaders and allies in the United States and Israel praised his decades of public service and commitment to national security, Iranian officials used the moment to reiterate their opposition to his policies….See More