Javier Milei Awarded Genesis Prize for Support of Israel, Reforms

The Genesis Prize Foundation announced on Tuesday that Argentine President Javier Milei has been chosen as the recipient of the prestigious Genesis Prize for 2025, making him the first head of state to receive the honor, often referred to as the “Jewish Nobel Prize.”

Milei, who has garnered international attention for his firm stance on supporting Israel, was the unanimous choice of the nine-member committee responsible for selecting the laureate.

The committee praised his unflinching backing of the Jewish State, particularly during some of the most challenging times since Israel’s establishment.

Among Milei’s significant actions in support of Israel are his decision to move the Argentine embassy to Jerusalem, reversing years of Argentina’s anti-Israel voting history in the United Nations, and his pledge to bring justice for the victims of the AMIA and Israeli Embassy bombings that took place in Argentina in 1992 and 1994, respectively.

He also declassified intelligence regarding the mysterious murder of prosecutor Alberto Nisman, who had been investigating the AMIA case at the time of his death.

“President Milei is a true hero of the Jewish people,” said Stan Polovets, co-founder and chairman of The Genesis Prize Foundation.

“Unlike leaders of many other countries, Milei has unconditionally backed the Jewish people and their state. This award expresses the appreciation of the State of Israel and the gratitude of the people of Israel toward the president and the people of Argentina.”

In addition to his foreign policy successes, the Genesis Prize Committee also lauded Milei for his economic reforms. Under his leadership, Argentina has seen a dramatic reduction in inflation from 25% to 2.4% per month.

The country also recorded a fiscal surplus for the first time in 15 years, marking a significant milestone for the Argentine economy.

Despite the challenges associated with implementing these reforms, Milei maintains a high approval rating, above 50%, which is exceptional for a democratic leader facing economic adjustment.

Milei’s unwavering support for Israel stands in contrast to other South American countries that have distanced themselves from the Jewish State amid its ongoing war with Hamas.

His decision to relocate the embassy to Jerusalem and reverse Argentina’s voting record at the United Nations highlights his commitment to strengthening Argentina’s alliance with Israel.

Upon accepting the Genesis Prize, Milei expressed his deep gratitude and commitment to supporting causes that promote freedom and combat antisemitism.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Genesis Prize. I will give the monetary prize to causes that support freedom and the fight against antisemitism, whether in Argentina or worldwide,” he stated.

The Genesis Prize, established in 2013, is an annual award that honors individuals for their professional achievements, humanitarian contributions, and support of Israel.

Previous laureates include Michael Bloomberg, Itzhak Perlman, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Albert Bourla. The foundation has awarded more than $50 million to philanthropic causes worldwide since its inception.

Milei, who has recently become more open about his Jewish heritage, studies Torah and attends prayer services.

He has also vowed to convert to Judaism after his term in office ends. His growing connection to his Jewish roots, which he learned about through his grandfather, is a source of inspiration for his actions both domestically and on the international stage.