As Israel celebrates 78 years since its founding, President Isaac Herzog is set to present the “Presidential Medal of Honor” to Argentine President Javier Milei, citing his outspoken and consistent backing of Israel since taking office in 2023.

Milei has repeatedly shown firm support for Israel in international forums, stood with the families of hostages, and voiced a strong personal bond with the Jewish people and their heritage. His administration has taken concrete steps to strengthen Argentina’s alliance with Israel, including diplomatic and security initiatives and the decision to move Argentina’s embassy to Yerushalayim, underscoring a clear commitment to Israel’s safety and global standing.

His actions reflect a deep personal dedication to Israel and to combating antisemitism. As part of his upcoming visit, Milei is expected to participate in the official Independence Day ceremony by lighting a torch and formally opening the Argentine Embassy in Yerushalayim.

The medal will be awarded by Israel’s president during Milei’s visit to the country, with the ceremony scheduled to take place at the President’s Residence. Additional details about the event are expected to be announced later.

The decision followed a unanimous recommendation from the Presidential Medal of Honor advisory committee, led by retired Supreme Court Justice Dr. Yoram Danziger. The Argentine president was formally notified of the decision through his country’s ambassador to Israel, with the message delivered by the Director-General of the President’s Office.

President Herzog accepted the recommendation and stated: “As early as the beginning of 2024, just a few months after the October 7th massacre, President Milei chose to make his first state visit as president to the State of Israel while a war was still underway. Together, we toured Kibbutz Nir Oz and together we wept at the sight of the destruction. Faced with the profound grief and trauma experienced by all of Israeli society, the President of Argentina offered courageous friendship and genuine partnership at some of the most difficult moments we have ever known.

“At a time when one campaign follows another and turning one’s back on Israel has become more prevalent than ever, President Milei represents bold leadership and pursues a clear and unequivocal policy of standing with the State of Israel, as an ardent Zionist, through thick and thin. He holds a warm place in his heart for the people of Israel, and I have therefore seen fit to honor all of his efforts on our behalf.”