Senator Lindsey Graham has described the current situation in Iran as a pivotal moment, comparing it to the fall of the Berlin Wall. In an opinion piece published by Fox News on February 26, 2026, Graham outlined his views on recent unrest in Iran and the role of the United States.
Graham argued that “the Iranian regime finds itself at its weakest point since 1979,” attributing this vulnerability to both internal protests and external military actions. He noted that following the attacks of October 7, Israel, with U.S. support, targeted Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities as well as its general military readiness. According to Graham, “it is ironic to me that one of the main reasons Iran is so crippled stems from October 7, yet it serves as a silver lining that has sprung from one of the greatest atrocities in modern history, nonetheless.”
He highlighted widespread protests across Iran: “The people in Iran have risen up and taken to the streets by the millions. Daily life is miserable, and with no viable economic growth potential, the future remains hopeless as long as the ayatollah stays in power.” Graham credited both these demonstrations and recent military actions for putting significant pressure on Iran’s leadership.
Discussing possible next steps for U.S. policy, Graham said: “President Donald Trump has two lines in the water: a diplomatic line and a military line. While diplomatic negotiations are always worth pursuing within reason, my ultimate hope is that regime change will be achieved.” He suggested regime change could occur either through reform or by popular uprising.
Graham criticized those who oppose regime change: “To those who resist regime change: why do you wish to see this regime continue as it is? The ayatollah and his henchmen slaughter people for protesting, they beat young women to death for wearing their headscarves improperly, and they have overseen the largest state sponsor of terrorism for decades. Who wants that to continue? I certainly don’t, nor do the Iranian people. The people are the ones demanding regime change, and we should stand behind them.”
He cited former President Trump’s remarks encouraging protesters: “When asked by the world media what the protesters in Iran should do, President Trump boldly said, ‘Keep protesting. Help is on the way.’ I believe that to be the correct statement, and it will be historical in nature if the regime collapses.”
Graham further stated: “Trump’s support for the protesters, in conjunction with America’s display of strength in Operation Midnight Hammer, has created the largest opportunity for peace and prosperity in the Mideast in over 1,000 years.” He believes that if there is a new government in Tehran normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel could resume.
Reflecting on his recent trip to Israel, UAE and Saudi Arabia—countries he describes as facing threats from Iran—Graham wrote: “Each of these possibilities are not only attainable but would be extremely beneficial to the United States and our allies.”
However, he warned about consequences if there is no change: “At the helm is the ayatollah… If he remains in charge after all this bluster, I fear problems that will arise will haunt the region for decades and America even further.”
Graham expressed confidence in Trump’s leadership during this period: “I know President Trump to be a man of his word. He is reluctant to get entangled in wars with no end yet unafraid to use force.”
He concluded by drawing parallels with past historic events: “If we follow through by sending help to protesters risking their lives we will have a 21st Century Berlin Wall moment… What followed was a new birth of freedom around globe liberating millions who knew nothing but oppression.”
Senator Graham currently serves as chairman of the Senate Budget Committee according to his official website. He focuses on national defense issues and fiscal responsibility while representing South Carolina since first being elected in 2002 (source). As chairman he recently released updated legislative text for border-security funding (source).
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