Argentina’s Foreign Minister Dr. Gerardo Werthein visited the Western Wall in Jerusalem on Sunday, describing the experience as “emotional and unique.”
Werthein was accompanied by Argentina’s ambassador to Israel, Rabbi Shimon Axel Wahnish for the visit, during which he donned tefillin and offered prayers for the peace and security of both Israel and Argentina, emphasizing his commitment to the strong ties between the two nations.
“Coming here is emotional and unique; the feeling is indescribable,” Werthein said. “I feel protected here and pray for the peace of the Jewish people and the State of Israel and an end to hatred.”
Werthein formerly served his country as Argentina’s Ambassador to the United States. He pledged his oath to serve as minister upon a Torah at his October 2024 inauguration.
During his visit the Argentinian foreign minister was greeted by the rabbi of the Western Wall and holy sites, Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, and the director of the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, Mr. Mordechai (Suli) Eliav. The two Western Wall officials expressed their appreciation for the unwavering support of the Argentine government led by President Javier Milei, who is a strong advocate for the State of Israel.
The minister was also taken on a tour of the newly opened Gateway to Heaven exhibit, which provides a unique experience about Jewish history and the continuous connection to the Western Wall throughout the generations. The exhibit utilizes advanced technologies to illustrate the historical journey of this sacred site.
