Javier Milei Visiting Israel to Expand Ties Across Latin America

Argentine President Javier Milei is set to arrive in Israel on Sunday for a visit expected to include a series of diplomatic and strategic announcements alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in what is shaping up to go beyond a routine bilateral meeting. The anticipated moves, including a direct air route, new cooperation agreements, and a regional initiative, point to an effort led by Milei to position Israel as a broader partner for countries across Latin America.

Among the expected outcomes is the launch of a direct El Al flight between Israel and Buenos Aires, set to begin later this year. Israeli and Argentine officials are also expected to sign memoranda of understanding covering defense cooperation and artificial intelligence, with both leaders scheduled to deliver joint statements following their meeting.

At the center of the visit is a proposal known as the “Isaac Accords,” an initiative promoted by Milei aimed at expanding Israel’s ties with countries across Latin America through economic, diplomatic, and strategic cooperation frameworks. The initiative is modeled on the Abraham Accords and is expected to receive backing from the United States as part of a broader effort to strengthen regional alignment.

The visit will also include a series of symbolic and diplomatic engagements. Milei is expected to visit the Western Wall (Kotel), meet with families of hostages, and receive an honorary doctorate from Bar-Ilan University. He is also scheduled to meet with President Isaac Herzog.

Milei is also expected to take part in events connected to Israel’s Independence Day torch-lighting ceremony, though recent reports indicate his participation may be limited to the rehearsal rather than the official ceremony itself.

“I defend the cause of Israel and the Jewish people because it is a just cause,” said Javier Milei, in a recent interview with Channel 14. He has also described Israel as “the fortress of the West,” arguing that defending it is essential to preserving the broader Western world.

Milei has taken a hard line on Iran, calling it “an enemy of Argentina” due to past attacks on its soil, and warning that the international community’s response has been driven by fear. “The main characteristic of the international community is that they are cowards,” he said, arguing that failing to confront terrorism only strengthens it.

Argentina holds particular weight in the relationship, with the largest Jewish community in Latin America, numbering nearly 300,000 people. Under Milei, the government has moved to align more closely with Israel and the United States on key geopolitical issues, including a tougher stance against Iran and its regional influence.

The visit is expected to conclude on Tuesday.