Milei ends visit to Israel with song at Independence Day ceremony

President Javier Milei brought his visit to Israel to a close on Tuesday by attending the country’s Independence Day ceremony, appearing alongside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a high-profile show of alignment.

Seated in the front row at the official event, Milei greeted Netanyahu with an embrace before later taking to the stage, where he sang 'Libre,' the classic ballad by Spanish singer Nino Bravo, alongside two other performers.

He also delivered a brief but pointed address emphasising the depth of ties between the two nations.

“I have the honour of being here as president of the Argentine Republic, accompanying you on this 78th anniversary of the independence of the State of Israel,” Milei said, opening his remarks with thanks to President Isaac Herzog, Netanyahu, and Knesset speaker Amir Ohana for the invitation.

“In life there are partners and there are friends,” Milei said. “Partners come together for a moment of shared interest. Friends forge unbreakable bonds for life. I am pleased to say that Argentina and Israel are not merely partners, but friendly nations.”

The La Libertad Avanza leader highlighted his participation in the traditional torch-lighting ceremony, describing it as a particular honour to light the final torch, symbolising unity.

He invoked the story of the Maccabees, praising their resilience and faith, and linking their struggle to broader themes of perseverance and moral conviction.

In an emotional closing, Milei reiterated his intention to relocate Argentina’s Embassy to Jerusalem “as soon as conditions allow,” reinforcing a position that has become a defining feature of his foreign policy stance.

“May God bless Israel, may God bless Argentina, and may the forces of heaven be with us,” he said, ending with his trademark rallying cry: “Long live freedom, damn it.”

– TIMES/NA