Argentina Launches Isaac Accord with Israel

Argentine President Javier Milley officially introduced the Isaac Accord, positioning Argentina as a “pioneer” alongside the United States in creating a new framework for enhanced political, economic, and cultural cooperation with Israel.

This declaration followed a meeting last week in Buenos Aires with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, who is currently touring the region to strengthen diplomatic relationships and coordinate joint initiatives throughout Latin America.

Milley explained that the agreement takes inspiration from the Abraham Accords, aiming to “deepen relations between Israel and Latin America,” enhance collaboration in “national strategic areas,” and establish enduring diplomatic partnerships.

Saar expressed his appreciation for Milley in a message on social media, calling his election a “double miracle for Argentina and for Jews.” He praised Milley’s genuine affinity for Judaism and Israel, recounting a moment before their meeting when the president recited a traditional Jewish prayer of thanksgiving while donning a kippah and encouraged Saar to wear one too. “He immediately put the kippah on his head,” Saar noted.

Officials in Argentina shared that the initial phase of the Isaac Accord focuses on Uruguay, Panama, and Costa Rica, where discussions about cooperation in technology, security, and economic development have already commenced. Diplomats involved in these talks conveyed that the goal is to transform political alliances into structured regional programs.

Additionally, they discussed Argentina’s intention to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem. Saar mentioned that they had considered this move “in great detail,” including plans for celebratory events in the spring. As they parted ways, Milley smiled and said, “See you again in Jerusalem.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to Milley in a message, stating that the president’s moral clarity and vision signal a new era of common interests and values between Israel and Latin America. He further noted that the Isaac Accord could elevate bilateral relations “to new heights” alongside US leadership.

Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno is set to visit Israel in February, where Ambassador Axel Wanisch will work on implementing the agreement and outreach to regional partners.

Interestingly, Milley has mentioned plans to convert to Judaism after leaving office and has significantly shifted Argentina’s position toward Israel since assuming office. At a recent event celebrating 90 years of the Argentine Israel Association, Saar thanked Milley for his strong support for Israel, to which Milley responded, “The free world must rise up against the threats to freedom that seek to reclaim itself.”