Argentina halts Jerusalem embassy move over Falklands drilling dispute: Report

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9 hours ago|

World

Argentina freezes plans to move embassy to Jerusalem amid rising diplomatic tension with 'Israel'.
Dispute linked to 'Israeli' oil exploration near contested Falkland Islands, threatening broader bilateral relations.

Argentina has suspended plans to transfer its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a decision reported by 'Israel’s' private Channel 12. The move, originally set to coincide with the so-called “'Israeli' Independence Day” on April 21–22, comes amid escalating diplomatic tension between Buenos Aires and 'Israel'.

Oil exploration sparks diplomatic crisis

'Israeli' oil exploration in disputed waters near the Falkland Islands, claimed by Argentina but under British control, has fueled the rift. The project, estimated at $1.8 billion and aiming to produce 32,000 barrels per day, has drawn strong criticism from Argentine political and public circles, prompting officials to describe the situation as a “real crisis” in bilateral relations.

The freeze in embassy relocation reflects the heightened tensions and warned that it could affect broader ties, which had warmed since President Javier Mile assumed office in December 2023. Advisers close to Mile described the impact on relations with 'Israel' as potentially "deep and lasting", according to Channel 12.

'Israel' responds cautiously

The 'Israeli' Foreign Ministry emphasized that Argentina remains “one of Israel’s closest friends”, highlighting ongoing high-level dialogue. It noted that the company conducting the offshore drilling is publicly traded in Tel Aviv and not legally subject to government control. Argentina’s embassy in 'Israel' had not immediately commented.

Embassy relocations remain rare

Argentina’s plan follows its president’s February 2024 pledge during an official visit to 'Israel'. Currently, only a handful of countries, including the United States, Kosovo, Honduras, Guatemala, Papua New Guinea, and Fiji, maintain embassies in Jerusalem. Most nations avoid such moves, reflecting the city’s disputed status under international law.

Palestinians consider East Jerusalem the capital of a future state and accuse 'Israel' of continuing to erase its Arab and Islamic heritage through ongoing settlement expansion and control of holy sites.