Among Israel’s numerous supporters in Washington, certain figures have distinguished themselves through exceptional dedication to the Jewish state’s cause. Sen. Lindsey Graham, the veteran Republican from South Carolina, is one such figure.

During our Thursday afternoon conversation in his office, his staff was shepherding through the Senate a heartfelt farewell resolution for departing Israeli Ambassador Mike Herzog. The unanimous support from all 100 senators underscored the senators’ deep respect for Herzog. Graham’s selection to deliver remarks at the ambassador’s farewell ceremony hours later highlighted the senator’s remarkable dedication to Israel. His steadfast support for Israel, recognized across party lines, has positioned him as a unique mediator between Israel and Saudi Arabia on behalf of the United States, both before and during the current conflict.

Throughout his frequent wartime visits to Israel, and again in his Senate office last weekend, Graham emphasized a consistent message: “The greatest threat to Iran was the normalization between Israel and Arab states. The attitude of Saudi and [United Arab Emirates] leadership toward Israel represents the most significant transformation I’ve witnessed in my lifetime. Don’t let this opportunity slip away. I believe Oct. 7 was designed to derail this process, because we were so close to a breakthrough. I refuse to let those bastards in Iran succeed. The key is to always do what your enemy despises most.”