On Sunday, President Masoud Barzani expressed condolences to the family and friends of the U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, who passed away on Saturday, underlining that he was a true friend of the Kurdish people.

“It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham, a friend of the Kurdish people,” President Masoud Barzani posted on X. 

“His name and his unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the people of Kurdistan will always be remembered with deep respect by the people of Kurdistan.

“I extend my sincere condolences to his esteemed family and to all his friends and loved ones, and I share in their grief. May he rest in peace, and I wish his family and relatives patience, strength, and comfort during this difficult time.”

On Sunday, the Office of Senator Graham announced that the senator had passed away on Saturday “from a brief and sudden illness. Senator Graham’s family appreciates prayers at this time and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult period.”

Senator Graham was known as one of the biggest advocates of Kurdish rights in the U.S. Senate.