Argentina's President Javier Milei Stands in Support of Israeli PM Netanyahu Amid ICC Arrest Warrant Controversy

Milei argued that Israel continues to face acts of terrorism and that the human rights of its citizens are being violated. He accused the ICC of distorting the principles of international justice by overlooking the atrocities committed by terrorist groups.

The news was reported on Thursday, November 21, by Argentina’s Buenos Aires Times. The ICC has accused the Israeli leaders of committing crimes against humanity and war crimes, alleging that essential living conditions have been systematically denied to Gaza's residents, depriving them of basic humanitarian rights.

Following the ICC's decision, nations such as the Netherlands, Italy, and other European countries have announced their willingness to hand over Netanyahu to the ICC if he enters their jurisdictions. However, countries like the United States, Hungary, and Argentina have sided with Netanyahu.

The Argentine government, in its official stance, stated that it opposes the arrest warrants and does not consider Israel's legitimate right to self-defense as a crime.

Argentina’s historical ties with Israel have also influenced this position. The country is home to the largest Jewish population in Latin America, and bilateral relations deepened significantly under President Mauricio Macri in 2016. President Milei, a self-proclaimed supporter of Israel, visited the country in 2023 and announced plans to move Argentina's embassy to Jerusalem, further cementing the relationship.

Milei’s admiration for Judaism and his strong pro-Israel stance underscore the close ties between Argentina and Israel, reflecting his broader geopolitical vision.