That unforgettable scene marked the conclusion of the 2025 Genesis Prize ceremony, held in the Mizel Family Grand Hall. There, the Argentinian leader became the first non-Jewish recipient of the “Jewish Nobel” in an event that was more than a celebration of political alliance—it was a declaration of moral clarity, mutual destiny, and deep friendship.

“I am not a Jew,” Milei said in his speech, “but this does not prevent me from feeling like the history of the Jewish people is also my history.” With that, he touched on something far deeper than geopolitics—something spiritual and eternal. The crowd listened in rapt attention as he spoke of shared values, civilization, and the fight against rising hatred.

“In the present world,” he warned, “the ghost of antisemitism regains new strength and strengthens the base of barbaric terrorism… which only promotes the cult of death, tramples on our beliefs, and tramples on the freedoms for which our ancestors fought.” This award, he said, was not only an honor but “a vital impulse to continue waging the cultural battle against the enemies of freedom in all its versions.”

Like prize recipients before him, Milei chose not to keep the $1 million prize. Instead, the funds will be dedicated to his Isaac Accords initiative—modeled after the Abraham Accords—which aims to forge a new alliance between Israel and Latin American democracies committed to liberty, innovation, and counterterrorism. It was a gesture that matched the gravity of his words—a call to action backed by sacrifice and sincerity.

Since taking office, Milei has led Argentina with bold moral leadership: reversing his country’s anti-Israel UN voting record, officially designating Hamas and Hezbollah as terrorist groups, declassifying archives related to Nazi fugitives, and pursuing a renewed investigation into the 1994 terror attacks against Argentina’s Jewish community. At a time when many world leaders have chosen silence, Milei has chosen courage.

The Genesis Prize Foundation, represented by co-founder Stan Polovets, hailed the decision to honor Milei. “Milei’s support is not only symbolic. His Isaac Accords vision is a geopolitical strategy that can bring tangible results in Latin America—from stronger bilateral ties to more votes for Israel at the UN.”

Human rights icon and Genesis Prize selection committee member Natan Sharansky echoed the sentiment. “This year, we wanted to honor not just someone with Jewish heritage, but someone who honors the Jewish people with his courage,” he said. “Mr. President, you are a true hero of the Jewish people.”

Milei ended with a blessing: “I ask that you bless the Jewish people, bless the Argentines, and may the strength of heaven accompany us all.” And finally, with unmistakable passion, he declared his signature cry: “¡Viva la libertad, carajo!”

As Carole King’s “You’ve Got a Friend” played in tribute, it was clear: in a time of uncertainty, Israel found an unexpected friend in Milei.