US EditionLooming Large over Israel's 78th Independence Day Celebrations: Argentina's Javier Milei
Milei’s appearance capped a three-day visit and underscored Argentina’s closer ties with Israel as other leaders distance themselves.
- On Tuesday, Argentinian President Javier Milei became the first foreign leader to light a ceremonial torch at Israel's 78th Independence Day celebrations, dancing to the Spanish-language song Libre at both the rehearsal and live event.
- Milei's visit from Sunday through Tuesday served as a powerful symbol of his continued support for Israel while other world leaders have distanced themselves from the nation. He is a longtime philosemite who aims one day to convert to Judaism.
- Critics denounced the selection of certain torch-lighters. Gil Dickmann, a cousin of hostage Carmel Gat, wrote on Instagram that one selection was "spitting in the faces of families" of those affected by the conflict.
- Simultaneously, thousands gathered in Tel Aviv for an alternative Independence Day ceremony where speakers criticized the government's handling of the war. Yifat Calderon lit a torch and used her remarks to "demand the establishment of a state commission of inquiry" into Oct. 7.
- The official programming concludes with the Israel Prize ceremony, the nation's top civilian honor. Honorees this year include artist Yaacov Agam and Chantal Belzberg, the CEO of a nonprofit aiding families of fallen soldiers.
14 Articles
14 Articles
The prizes, the honors received and the emotion transmitted by the holy places for Jews and Christians were finished. After four intense days in Israel, where he participated in the celebrations for the 78th anniversary of the Hebrew State, President Javier Milei above last noon to Buenos Aires. A broth of intense cultivation awaits him.
Jewish Telegraphic Agency
The ForwardLooming large over Israel's 78th Independence Day celebrations: Argentina's Javier Milei
During his three days in Israel this week, Argentinian President Javier Milei made a strong impression. There he was, weeping again at the Western Wall. There he was, receiving the Presidential Medal of Honor for his leadership and support for Israel. And there he was, lighting a torch for the Independence Day festivities as the first foreign leader ever to do so. There Milei was, grabbing a microphone and dancing raucously on stage to the Spani…
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