Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described Argentine President Javier Milei as Argentina’s “real superstar,” praising his strong support for Israel instead of highlighting football icon Lionel Messi.
Speaking during a recent podcast interview, Netanyahu said Milei had emerged as a symbol of Argentina’s close relationship with Israel, calling him “Israel’s greatest friend” and commending his government’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Israel and Argentina strengthen strategic partnership
Netanyahu’s remarks come as Israel and Argentina continue expanding diplomatic, economic and strategic cooperation under Milei’s administration.
The two countries recently announced the Isaac Accords, a framework designed to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors, including trade, diplomacy and regional cooperation.
Since taking office, Milei has adopted one of the strongest pro-Israel foreign policy positions in Latin America, earning repeated praise from Israeli leaders.
Netanyahu praises Milei’s support
During the interview, Netanyahu said Milei’s steadfast backing of Israel had made him Argentina’s “real superstar.”
The Israeli leader has previously applauded Milei for strengthening bilateral relations through increased diplomatic engagement and closer political coordination.
The comments further underscore the growing partnership between the two governments.
World Cup controversy keeps Argentina in the spotlight
Netanyahu’s remarks also come at a time when Argentina has remained in international headlines following its FIFA World Cup 2026 Round-of-16 victory over Egypt.
Argentina advanced to the quarter-finals after a 3-2 win, but the match sparked widespread debate over several refereeing decisions.
Critics questioned the use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), arguing that key incidents involving Egypt received closer scrutiny than similar challenges involving Argentina.
French referee François Letexier faced criticism on social media, where some fans alleged inconsistent officiating and claimed the decisions favored the defending champions.
At the time of reporting, FIFA had not issued a detailed statement addressing the refereeing controversy.
Diplomatic ties remain in focus
While Netanyahu’s comments centered on Milei’s political support for Israel, they have drawn wider attention as Argentina continues to feature prominently on the global stage for both its evolving foreign policy and its World Cup campaign.
The remarks highlight the increasingly close relationship between Israel and Argentina under Milei’s leadership, with both governments signaling a commitment to expanding cooperation in the years ahead.
