Argentine President Visits Knesset Amid Political Turmoil in Israel
Argentine President Javier Milei Addresses Knesset
Argentine President Javier Milei delivered a speech in the Knesset on Wednesday as part of his visit to Israel. Following his address, he shared a warm embrace with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, joking that they both woke up with sore throats, pondering who “infected” whom. “I say we infected each other with our love for Israel and the Bible,” Netanyahu quipped.
Political Dialogue and Legislative Challenges
During the session, Prime Minister Netanyahu received a note from Aryeh Deri, chairman of the Shas party, indicating support for Yuli Edelstein. This moment presented an opportunity for opposition leader Yair Lapid to critique the Prime Minister in front of President Milei, stating, “History has taught us what will happen if we are all killed. They will write a nstart eulogy. We prefer to live.”
Lapid highlighted Argentina’s recent governmental restructuring under Milei, noting the reduction of ministries from 20 to 8. “Milei said those who want to work can, and if not, that’s their problem. Argentina does not fund idlers,” he added. Lapid emphasized the importance of responsible economic management, stating, “Two years ago we had a budget surplus. A true leader does not fund idlers. With proper economic governance, we can achieve new heights.”
Upcoming Vote on Dissolution of Knesset
In parallel, a senior member of the United Torah Judaism party informed Maariv that a vote on dissolving the Knesset would occur today. This move aims to prevent Netanyahu from delaying for a week or two, potentially allowing the current Knesset session to continue through the summer recess. The source noted, “While we are not sure if Netanyahu wishes to dissolve the Knesset before completing a full term, we are aware he does not want to do so immediately-at least not until next winter. We are not prepared for that.”
The source elaborated that Netanyahu must decide whether to dissolve the Knesset now or reach compromises regarding the conscription law, emphasizing that they would not allow him to stall indefinitely. “Without a final compromise on the draft law, no excuses, the vote on dissolution will happen today,” he asserted.
Earlier in the day, a senior source from the Shas party mentistartd significant progress in negotiations surrounding the conscription law framework at approximately 3:30 PM. However, Yuli Edelstein, chair of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, unexpectedly decided to dig in over minor details within the sanctions related to the draft law.
This complex political backdrop continues to unfold, with implications for both Israeli governance and its international relations