Israeli Ambassador Michael Leiter affirmed the importance of continuing Senator Lindsey Graham’s legacy in Middle Eastern diplomacy, particularly regarding relations with Saudi Arabia. He also clarified Israel’s position on the conflict with Iran, stating that military action may be warranted if diplomatic efforts fail.

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham passed away on Saturday evening following a brief illness, his office confirmed. Graham, 68, had recently visited Ukraine, meeting President Zelensky. His family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Graham was a prominent figure in U.S. politics since 2003.

A housing bill, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, became law at midnight after President Trump declined to sign it, citing a protest against the Senate’s inaction on a related elections bill. The legislation aims to reduce housing costs by limiting institutional investors’ purchases of certain homes.

Congressman Ro Khanna reported being detained by Israeli settlers for over an hour during his visit to the West Bank on 8 July 2026. He stated that Israel Defense Forces intervened, moving a vehicle to block the road. The incident was corroborated by a photojournalist.

Senior Pentagon officials are intensifying enforcement of grooming and fitness standards for U.S. service members following Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s directives. Recent measures include the potential discharge of those failing to comply after medical waivers due to ongoing concerns about military readiness and discipline standards.

The Trump administration plans to support a draft bill imposing significant financial penalties on purchasers of Russian oil, aiming to increase economic pressure on Moscow amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal confirmed White House backing for the legislation.