JERUSALEM (VINnews)  — Minister Miri Regev announced on Thursday evening that she has chosen Javier Milei, the President of Argentina, to light a torch at Mount Herzl on Israel’s Independence Day.

Milei, who has led Argentina for the past two and a half years, has expressed strong support for Israel through a series of leadership decisions, ranging from recognizing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Hezbollah, and Hamas as terrorist organizations, to efforts toward the release of hostages, the decision to rename “Palestine Street” to “Bibas Family Street,” and his active stance in international forums against antisemitism and in support of Israel’s right to defend itself.

Regev stated: “In these very complex times, the State of Israel has found in Buenos Aires a true friend and devoted partner. President Javier Milei is among the prominent leaders of the free world and one of Israel’s closest allies, a true friend and genuine supporter of Zionism, a model of partnership, loyalty, and appreciation for the Jewish people, and one of their greatest allies. Choosing him reflects the deep gratitude of all Israeli citizens for his leadership and our great pride in the warm and close relationship between Israel and Argentina.”

Earlier, additional torch-lighters were announced, including Gal Hirsch, the mediator who orchestrated the release of all of the hostages, alongside Talik Gvilli, who lost her son, police officer Ran (of blessed memory), on October 7. Also selected was Rabbi Avraham Zarviv, a Dayan on a rabbinical court who also serves in reserve military duty and became famous for his exploits in Gaza.