Argentina’s President Javier Milei receives Presidential Medal of Honor from Israel’s President Isaac Herzog in Jerusalem, April 20, 2026. Photo: REUTERS/Amir Cohen

For much of the past two decades, discussions about relations between the United States, Latin America, and Israel have been dominated by politics, security crises, and ideological divides.

Today, however, a different opportunity is emerging — one defined not by conflict but by economic integration, technological innovation, democratic cooperation, and shared strategic interests.

The recently signed Isaac Accords, a trilateral initiative of the US, Israel, and Argentina, signals the beginning of what could become a transformative framework for hemispheric cooperation, echoing the success of the Abraham Accords in the Middle East.

If aptly developed and expanded to include other like-minded nations, the Isaac Accords could become one of the most consequential diplomatic and economic initiatives connecting the Americas and the Middle East in decades.

Across Latin America, a growing number of governments are already strengthening ties with Israel — building on eight decades of collaboration, which, despite political ebbs and flows, has remained sturdy. Argentina has placed its relationship with Israel at the center of its foreign policy. Paraguay and Costa Rica have reaffirmed their longstanding partnership. Ecuador has deepened cooperation in areas ranging from security to innovation.

Recent elections in Bolivia, Chile, Honduras, Colombia, and Peru have brought forth new governments which are increasingly recognizing Israel not only as a strategic ally, but also as a global leader in technology, agriculture, water management, cybersecurity, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.

And just recently, a highly experienced Israeli rescue team was warmly received in earthquake devastated Caracas after a diplomatic hiatus dating back to 2009, raising hopes for the restoration of bilateral relations.

At the same time, the US is renewing its engagement with the Western Hemisphere, seeking reliable democratic partners capable of advancing economic growth, strengthening supply chains, countering authoritarian influence, and fostering innovation throughout the region.

These parallel developments create a rare strategic convergence.

Unlike traditional diplomatic agreements, however, lasting regional partnerships envisioned in the Isaac and Abraham Accords cannot depend exclusively on government-to-government partnerships. Political administrations change and elections often reshape priorities.

Rather, long-term success requires institutions capable of sustaining cooperation beyond electoral cycles. And that is where civil society must play a central role.

The Isaac Accords should not simply be understood as a governmental initiative, but instead as a platform that mobilizes entrepreneurs, investors, universities, innovators, philanthropic organizations, and civic leaders committed to building enduring trilateral Latin America-US-Israel partnerships.

To help foster these relationships, American Jewish Committee (AJC) recently launched the Global Partners of the Isaac Accords, an initiative to translate diplomatic vision into practical collaboration.

Latin America’s Jewish communities will be vital to this initiative’s success. For generations, they have served as bridges connecting their home countries with Israel and the US, while also making significant contributions to economic development, education, innovation, and philanthropy in their broader communities. Their leadership, networks, and entrepreneurial spirit can help catalyze partnerships that extend well beyond the Jewish community itself, engaging a broad coalition of business leaders and civil society organizations committed to regional prosperity.

The opportunities are substantial: Increased investment flows. Expanded innovation ecosystems. Stronger supply chains. Enhanced food and water security. Greater technological collaboration. More resilient democratic alliances.

These are not abstract aspirations. They are tangible benefits that can improve the lives of millions across the hemisphere.

At a time when geopolitical competition is intensifying and democratic societies face mounting challenges, cooperation among the US, Israel, and Latin America represents more than an economic opportunity. It is an investment in a shared future rooted in openness, innovation, pluralism, and democratic values.

History reminds us that the most successful international initiatives are those that extend beyond official diplomacy. Governments can open doors, but societies build lasting partnerships.

The Isaac Accords offer the possibility of redefining trilateral cooperation for a new generation. Their ultimate success will depend not only on presidents and foreign ministers but also on entrepreneurs, investors, universities, civic organizations, and communities willing to transform diplomatic vision into enduring relationships.

If that broader coalition comes together, the Isaac Accords could become not simply another agreement, but the foundation of a more integrated, innovative, and democratic Atlantic partnership — one that strengthens the Americas while creating new bridges to Israel for decades to come.

Dina Siegel Vann, a native of Mexico, is the Founding Director of AJC’s Arthur and Rochelle Belfer Institute for Latino and Latin American Affairs based in Washington, D.C.