Netanyahu declares support for Argentina ahead of World Cup final

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported that Argentina’s ambassador to Israel met Benjamin Netanyahu and gave him an Argentina football shirt before the World Cup final. The outlet said the final was set to be played against Spain, and that Netanyahu publicly indicated he would be backing Argentina in the match. The report was published on July 19, 2026, as a short Newsfeed video item.

According to Al Jazeera’s account, Netanyahu linked his support to Israel’s relationship with Argentina, saying he has a strong rapport with Argentine President Javier Milei. The article did not identify the ambassador by name or provide further details about where the jersey presentation took place, what was discussed beyond the football gesture, or whether any formal diplomatic meeting accompanied it.

The moment is notable mainly as a piece of public diplomacy around a major global sporting event. Political leaders often use World Cup occasions to signal friendships, appeal to international audiences, or highlight bilateral ties in a low-stakes setting. In this case, the gesture placed Israel’s prime minister alongside Argentina’s national team ahead of one of the most watched sporting fixtures in the world.

Background context: Milei has been known internationally for taking a strongly pro-Israel stance, and ties between his government and Netanyahu’s have drawn attention. Al Jazeera’s brief report, however, focused narrowly on the jersey presentation and Netanyahu’s stated support for Argentina before the final.