Mazloum Abdi, General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), expressed deep sadness over the death of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, praising his steadfast support for the Kurdish people and his defense of a peaceful Syria.

Senator Graham died unexpectedly at the age of 71 on Saturday, following a sudden medical emergency at his Washington, D.C. home. 

The influential South Carolina Republican passed away shortly after returning from an official trip to Ukraine, prompting widespread tributes for his decades of political and foreign policy leadership.

'Profoundly Saddened': SDF's Mazloum Abdi Pays Tribute 

“I am profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of Senator Lindsey Graham,” Abdi said in a statement on X. 

Abdi stressed that Graham’s “extensive service, principled leadership, steadfast support for the Kurds, and unwavering advocacy for a peaceful and just Syria will be etched in history.”

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this time of grief. May he rest in eternal peace,” he added.

Graham’s Legacy and Legislative Impact on U.S.-Kurdish Relations 

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham was one of Washington's most influential and vocal advocates for the Kurdish people, consistently championing them as a vital American partner in the region. 

The veteran lawmaker frequently traveled to the Middle East to coordinate security efforts with high-level leaders, including SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi and other leaders in the Kurdistan Region.

Graham served as the primary political shield for Rojava, consistently blocking American troop withdrawals to protect the region from foreign attacks and ethnic cleansing. 

His fierce commitment to northeast Syria culminated in his landmark "Save the Kurds" Act, which threatened severe economic sanctions against any military force targeting Kurdish counter-ISIS allies