The ceremony took place at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Israel, with a red-carpet welcome and the IDF band playing national anthems. 

The medal was awarded in recognition of President Milei’s consistent and outspoken commitment to the State of Israel, his unwavering support for Israel on the international stage, his solidarity with the families of the hostages, and his deep personal connection to the Jewish people and its heritage.

Also in attendance at the ceremony were the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, Gideon Sa’ar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of the Argentine Republic, Pablo Quirno, and the Minister of Justice of the Argentine Republic, Juan Bautista Mahiques.

Upon presenting the “Presidential Medal of Honor” to President Milei, President Isaac Herzog said:

“Javier, my friend, it is a true honor and pleasure for Michal and me to welcome you here at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem. We gather at a sacred time and a sacred city. The city is our eternal capital. The time is the eve of Israel’s Memorial Day, in which Israel comes to a standstill in solidarity and mourning of those who gave their lives for our homeland.

“Tomorrow evening, Israelis will dry their tears and raise their Israeli flag to celebrate the independence of the State of Israel. As we approach this moment, I feel privileged to present a great friend of Israel and a great friend of mine, Dr. Javier Milei, with the highest civilian award an Israeli President can bestow: The Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor.

The ceremony took place a few hours before Yom HaZikaron, Memorial Day for Fallen Soldiers. Photos, stories, and yahrzeit candles were set for the fallen connected to Beit Hanasi.

Milei's first stop arriving in Israel was the Kotel. At his meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, trade agreements were signed. The President of Argentina was also honored to light a torch at the Israel Independence Day ceremony, marking the first time a foreign leader was honored.