Political Snub: Argentina Cancels Netanyahu Visit Despite Milei's Strong Support, While Nobel Laureate Files Arrest Warrant

An official visit to Argentina planned by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, currently attending the United Nations General Assembly in New York, has been abruptly cancelled. The news was revealed by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, which specified that the cancellation was requested by Argentine President Javier Milei himself.

Although Milei is considered one of "Israel's" most vocal and ardent supporters on the global stage, he opted against hosting Netanyahu at this juncture. The decision stems from domestic political concerns, as Milei reportedly feared the visit would negatively impact his political standing and popularity, especially with parliamentary elections looming and his approval ratings dipping in recent polls. Official sources in Buenos Aires downplayed the incident, arguing that the decision was not specifically aimed at Netanyahu or Israel, but rather part of general restrictions on hosting foreign leaders during this sensitive pre-election period.

It is worth noting that Netanyahu and Milei did meet on the sidelines of the UN meetings. Netanyahu expressed his gratitude for the Argentine President's "steadfast support for Israel and the Jewish people" and discussed potential avenues for expanding bilateral economic cooperation.

Lawsuit Demands Netanyahu's Arrest Upon Arrival

In a stark contrast to the official posture, a prominent legal and human rights push was made to demand the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit the country. The initiative was led by Adolfo Pérez Esquivel, the 1980 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, alongside several Argentine lawyers and human rights organizations. Esquivel, a 93-year-old known for his peaceful struggle for human rights and opposition to Latin American military dictatorships, is a revered figure.

The complaint lodged directly accused Netanyahu of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity, including murder, persecution, and the use of starvation as a weapon. Esquivel asserted that over 20,000 children have lost their lives due to Israeli attacks, emphasizing that Palestinians in Gaza are "deliberately targeted by Israeli soldiers."

Esquivel also criticized his own President, Milei, expressing hope that the visit would not occur. He stressed that by recognizing the rulings of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Argentina is obligated to enforce its judgments. This lawsuit gains significant weight as it follows the ICC's 2024 issuance of arrest warrants for both Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges related to war crimes and crimes against humanity against Palestinians.