Argentinian Survivors of 1992 Israeli Embassy Bombing Visit Israel in Emotional Reunion

A delegation of 12 Argentinian survivors who worked at the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires during the 1992 suicide bombing visited Israel in a trip organized by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The group, which included some who were injured in the attack, met with President Isaac Herzog, visited the Knesset, and held talks with Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar. The bombing, carried out by a suicide bomber driving a truck bomb, killed 29 people including Israeli diplomats, local staff, and bystanders, and injured hundreds. Iran and Hezbollah were identified as the planners and executors of the attack.

The visit included discussions on the ongoing investigation and the responsibility of Iran and Hezbollah. After years without accountability, the election of Argentine President Javier Milei marked a shift, making the fight against Iranian terrorism a key foreign policy focus. In 2025, the Argentine Congress amended the criminal code to allow trials in absentia, and in April 2024, a federal appeals court classified the bombing as a crime against humanity, removing statutes of limitations and officially designating Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism. This enabled renewed legal proceedings against Iranian and Hezbollah officials.

During the visit, Foreign Minister Sa'ar presented certificates of appreciation to the survivors for their contributions to Israel, including rebuilding the embassy and preserving the memory of the victims. Survivors expressed deep emotional connections, with Martin Goldberg calling the visit a "personal closure" and Lea Kovensky emphasizing resilience against terrorism. Victor Nusbaum highlighted the unity and enduring bonds formed among embassy staff despite the tragedy.

The initiative to bring the survivors to Israel was led by former consul Danny Carmon, who lost his wife in the attack. Carmon described the visit as a meaningful closure and a recognition of those who supported Israel during the crisis. Amital Perry, coordinator of the visit and soon-to-be Israeli ambassador to Ecuador, noted the survivors’ exceptional dedication to preserving the memory of the attack and the emotional significance of their reunion with Israeli Foreign Ministry staff. The delegation also held a joint memorial ceremony in Israel honoring the diplomats and local employees who died in the bombing.