Argentina’s President Javier Milei has been selected to light a torch at the official Independence Day ceremony on Har Herzl, in recognition of his strong and consistent support for Israel on the international stage.

The announcement was made Thursday evening by Culture and Sports Minister Miri Regev, who said she chose Milei for the honor due to his firm backing of Israel through a series of diplomatic and policy decisions.

Milei, who has led Argentina for the past two and a half years, has taken a number of notable steps in support of Israel. These include recognizing Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, Hezbollah, and Hamas as terrorist organizations, advocating for the release of hostages, renaming a street previously called “Palestine” to “Bibas Family Street,” and actively fighting antisemitism in international forums while defending Israel’s right to protect itself.

Regev praised Milei’s leadership and close relationship with Israel, stating: “In these very complex years that we are in the midst of, the State of Israel has found in Buenos Aires a true friend and a devoted partner. President Javier Milei is one of the prominent leaders of the free world and one of Israel’s closest allies, a true friend and a true Zionist, an example of partnership, loyalty, and appreciation for the Jewish people and one of the greatest friends of the Jewish people. Choosing him expresses the tremendous gratitude that all Israeli citizens feel toward his leadership and our immense pride in the warm and close relationship between Israel and Argentina.”

Earlier in the day, additional torch lighters were announced, including hostage and missing persons coordinator Gal Hirsch, as well as Talik Guaili, whose son, police officer Ran Hy”d, was killed on October 7. Also selected was Rabbi Avraham Zarbiv, who is currently serving in the reserves.