Late Sen. Lindsey Graham defiantly dismissed threats from Iran days before his death, responding to images circulating of his face with a bullseye on his head by remarking on the photograph's quality. The signs appeared during the extended state funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, where individuals were seen holding imagery targeting various U.S. figures, including former President Donald Trump, conservative commentators Ben Shapiro and Laura Loomer, and GOP mega-donor Miriam Adelson.
The translated text on the signs stated, "In the end, your heads will be severed." Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, posted on X, "At least they used a good photo of me. Judge me by my enemies."
Graham, 71, died suddenly on Saturday following a "brief and sudden illness," with emergency dispatch calls indicating he reported chest pain and a heart attack. His hawkish foreign policy stances had cultivated numerous international adversaries.
Shortly before his death, Graham had been in Ukraine, visiting a drone facility and meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky. During this visit, he also discussed a sanctions bill with Trump's team aimed at Russia, which would impose stricter penalties on countries purchasing oil from Moscow. Graham, a strong ally of Trump, had long advocated for such bipartisan legislation, which had previously been stalled.
This trip to Ukraine marked Graham's tenth visit since Russia's invasion began. He appeared vibrant and energetic during his time in the war-torn country, passing away just a day after his return.
Graham's death prompted expressions of mourning from international leaders. Former President Trump paid tribute on Truth Social, calling Graham "one of the greatest people and Senators I have ever known" and a "true American Patriot."