Argentine President Javier Milei has announced the launch of the Isaac Accords, a new framework designed to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between Argentina, Israel, and other countries in Latin America. Modeled on the previous Abraham Accords, this initiative aims to enhance cooperation in key strategic sectors and establish long-term diplomatic partnerships. The initial focus will be on Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica.
The formal announcement took place during a meeting in Buenos Aires between Milei and Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who is currently on a regional tour to bolster diplomatic relations and coordinate joint initiatives throughout Latin America. President Milei emphasized that the accords aim to deepen relations between Israel and Latin America and to solidify cooperation in vital national sectors.
Sa’ar described Milei’s election as “a double miracle, for Argentina and for the Jewish people.” He highlighted the Argentine president’s genuine connection to Judaism and Israel, recounting a poignant moment during their meeting. Before their discussions began, he recited the traditional Shehecheyanu blessing — a Jewish prayer of gratitude — while placing a kippah on his head, prompting Milei to don the kippah he keeps in his office.
The first phase of the Isaac Accords is already underway, with preliminary discussions focusing on technology, security, and economic development in Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica. Diplomatic sources indicate that the framework aims to translate political alignment into structured regional programs that can benefit all parties involved.
In addition to discussions about the accords, Milei and Sa’ar addressed Argentina’s plan to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem. The two leaders reviewed the details of this significant move, including preparations for a celebratory event anticipated in the spring of 2024. As their meeting concluded, Sa’ar noted that Milei smiled and expressed enthusiasm, saying, “See you soon in Jerusalem.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude towards Milei in a message posted on social media, commending the president’s “moral clarity, vision and courage.” Netanyahu remarked that the Isaac Accords have the potential to elevate bilateral relations to unprecedented levels, particularly in partnership with U.S. leadership under former President Donald Trump.
Looking ahead, Argentina’s Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno is set to travel to Israel in February to advance the operational structure of the accords. Ambassador Axel Wahnish will coordinate local implementation and outreach to regional partners, ensuring that the initiatives outlined in the accords are realized effectively.
Since taking office, Milei has notably shifted Argentina’s diplomatic posture towards Israel. Speaking at an event commemorating the 90-year anniversary of the Delegación de Asociaciones Israelitas Argentinas, Sa’ar thanked Milei for his “courageous and forceful” support for Israel. In response, Milei asserted the necessity for the free world to stand against threats to freedom that seek to reestablish themselves.
As the Isaac Accords take shape, they represent a significant development in Argentina’s foreign relations, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape in Latin America and fostering closer ties with Israel and the United States.
