Argentina plans to move its embassy to Jerusalem by 2026

Argentina, under President Javier Milei, announced plans to relocate its embassy from Herzliya to Jerusalem in a speech at the Knesset during his visit to Israel in June 2025. This decision marks a significant change in Argentina's diplomatic stance and aims to strengthen relations with Israel. Milei, who first hinted at this move during his state visit in February 2024, emphasized the historical importance of this relocation for Israel-Argentina relations and expressed his support for Israel amidst ongoing global tensions. He also addressed concerns about anti-Semitism and terrorism, advocating for the release of Argentine hostages held by Hamas, stating that Argentina stands firmly with Israel against the adversities it faces. During his speech, Milei noted the emotional and cultural ties that bind Argentina to Israel, despite the geographical distance of about 12,000 kilometers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Milei's support, deeming him a true friend of Israel, and praised the embassy relocation as a historic moment. The decision also comes at a time of heightened international scrutiny and criticism of Israel following recent conflicts, highlighting Milei's commitment to defend allies against perceived injustices. He appealed to the global community to recognize the importance of Israel's sovereignty and to understand the moral implications of terrorism versus legitimate defense. The embassy move is viewed as a reciprocal gesture following previous recognition actions taken by the United States under former President Donald Trump, who relocated the U.S. embassy in 2018. Milei’s remarks included a sharp criticism of the international reaction to Israel's actions in Gaza and a reflection on a shared understanding of justice, emphasizing that there can be no moral equality in the face of violent terrorism. The Argentinian leader reaffirmed his government's priorities, focusing on economic reforms at home while fostering closer ties with Israel. His administration seeks to navigate the complexities of foreign policy with an emphasis on moral clarity and integrity. The future of Argentina-Israel relations looks brighter with the planned embassy move, setting the stage for enhanced diplomatic and economic cooperation. President Milei’s proactive measures, including a potential direct flight initiative between Buenos Aires and Tel Aviv, illustrate a commitment not only to strong bilateral relations but also to a shared vision of peace and stability in a region fraught with challenges.