Prime Minister Netanyahu Commends Paraguay for Support and Embassy Move

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently praised Paraguayan President Santiago Peña for rejecting the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrants against Israeli leaders, including Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. This decision comes as Peña’s visit to Israel focuses on Paraguay’s move to relocate its embassy to Jerusalem, reaffirming its support for Israel.

In his speech at the Knesset, Netanyahu thanked Paraguay for its unwavering stance in defending Israel from false accusations, specifically pointing to the recent ICC decision as an example of politically motivated actions. He described the move as "scandalous" and "antisemitic," emphasizing that Israel continues to defend itself against "dark forces committing war crimes," while being unjustly accused of the same.

“The stance you’ve taken, Santiago, is a stand for truth, and we will continue to fight for it in every international forum,” Netanyahu stated. “We will also continue to confront those who seek to destroy us.”

Shared Values and Strengthening Ties

President Peña, in return, spoke about the shared values between Paraguay and Israel, highlighting the deep religiosity and understanding of adversity that binds the two nations. He also emphasized the significance of Jerusalem as the heart of the Jewish people and Israel’s eternal capital, reinforcing Paraguay’s decision to move its embassy back to Jerusalem after a brief reversal in 2018.

Peña condemned the rise of antisemitism globally and reassured Israel of Paraguay's unwavering support during challenging times. “While many countries turn their backs on Israel, Paraguay will always stand by you,” Peña affirmed.

The Inauguration of the Embassy in Jerusalem

In a historic moment, Paraguay's decision to reestablish its embassy in Jerusalem was officially marked by an inauguration ceremony. This included the symbolic affixing of a mezuzah at the embassy, a gesture made even more poignant due to its connection to the tragic loss of Naor Hasidim and Sivan Elkabetz, who were murdered in Kfar Aza on October 7.

Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, who also attended the ceremony, described the mezuzah as a symbol of the Jewish people’s resilience and continuity. “This mezuzah connects personal mourning to the collective memory of the State of Israel and the Jewish people,” he said.