Argentina’s Milei Launches ‘Isaac Accords’ to Boost Israel-Latin America Ties Amid Gaza Criticism
TEL AVIV, Israel – Argentine President Javier Milei has spearheaded a significant new initiative, the “Isaac Accords,” a $1 million project aimed at strengthening diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations between Israel and several Latin American nations. Announced by the Genesis Prize Foundation on Tuesday, this initiative comes at a critical juncture as Israel faces increasing international backlash over its ongoing military operations in Gaza.
Forging New Alliances: The Scope of the Isaac Accords
Named in homage to the groundbreaking Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab states from 2020 under former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, the Isaac Accords will initially concentrate on bolstering ties with Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica. The American Friends of the Isaac Accords, the organizing body, have ambitious plans for expansion, targeting key regional players such as Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and potentially El Salvador by 2026.
A Divergent Path: Argentina’s Unique Diplomatic Stance
President Milei’s proactive approach stands in stark contrast to the broader diplomatic trends in Latin America. While Argentina, under his leadership, has maintained robust relations with Israel, other significant regional powers have taken decisive actions reflecting strong disapproval of Israel’s conduct in the Gaza conflict. Both Bolivia and Colombia have severed diplomatic ties with Israel, and several other nations, including Honduras, have recalled their ambassadors, signaling significant diplomatic friction. This stark regional divergence highlights the polarized international landscape surrounding the conflict.
The Genesis Prize: Fueling the Initiative
The funding for the Isaac Accords originates directly from the prestigious Genesis Prize, an annual award frequently referred to as the “Jewish Nobel.” President Milei was awarded the $1 million prize in Jerusalem just two months prior, on June 12, 2024. The award acknowledged his “unwavering support for Israel,” particularly amidst escalating global condemnation of its actions in Gaza following the brutal Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, which initiated the current conflict.
Milei’s Personal Connection and Pro-Israel Advocacy
Though born and raised a Roman Catholic, Milei has increasingly expressed a profound public interest in Judaism, even hinting at a future conversion. His strong alignment with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing government positions him as one of Israel’s most prominent international advocates, especially as the nation navigates heightened isolation on the world stage. The Isaac Accords serve as a tangible demonstration of this deep commitment, aiming to forge a new path of engagement and solidarity in a complex geopolitical environment.
