Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for Argentina ahead of Sunday's FIFA World Cup final, conveying a personal message to President Javier Milei through Buenos Aires's ambassador to Israel, Rabbi Shimon Axel Wahnish, during a Saturday night meeting.
Wahnish presented Netanyahu with an audio message from Milei, who said, "You are my friend, always supporting us. I was happy to hear that you are rooting for Argentina because of me."
Netanyahu responded with praise for the Argentine leader, describing him as one of Israel's closest international allies. "Javier, you are a friend. A true friend," Netanyahu said. "We support you and we support Argentina in so many ways, including tomorrow. Good luck!"
Argentina, captained by Lionel Messi, faced Spain in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
Israel and Argentina have deepened their relationship since Milei took office in December 2023. The Argentine president has consistently voiced backing for Israel following the Hamas-led attacks of October 7, 2023, made multiple visits to Jerusalem, and indicated plans to relocate his country's embassy to the Israeli capital.
The final drew political commentary in some contexts, with Argentina's pro-Israel position under Milei contrasting against Spain's pro-Palestinian stance. Messi faced targeting by some anti-Israel activists online, who promoted antisemitic conspiracy theories falsely claiming he supported Israel and was controlled by Jewish interests.