Fact Check: Milei Blames Iran for 1992 and 1994 Terrorist Attacks in Buenos Aires
What We Know
The terrorist attacks in Buenos Aires on March 17, 1992, and July 18, 1994, targeted the Israeli Embassy and the Asociación Mutual Israelita Argentina (AMIA) Jewish Center, respectively. The 1992 bombing killed 29 people and injured over 200, while the 1994 attack resulted in 85 deaths and over 300 injuries, making it the deadliest terrorist attack in Argentina's history (source-1, source-4).
In April 2024, Argentina's highest criminal court concluded that Iran had planned the AMIA bombing and that Hezbollah executed the attack. This ruling was based on intelligence reports and marked a significant step in the long-standing investigation into these attacks (source-4, source-5). U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also acknowledged Iran's involvement in a statement commemorating the AMIA attack's anniversary (source-3).
Analysis
Javier Milei, the current president of Argentina, has publicly stated that Iran is responsible for the 1992 and 1994 bombings, aligning with the findings of the Argentine judiciary. His administration has vowed to pursue justice for the victims of these attacks (source-2). The court's ruling has been widely reported and corroborated by multiple reputable sources, including the Associated Press and The New York Times, which lend credibility to the assertion that Iran played a significant role in orchestrating these attacks (source-4, source-5).
While some skepticism exists regarding the evidence presented in court, particularly concerning the direct involvement of Iranian officials, the consensus among various international and local authorities supports the claim that Iran was behind the attacks (source-4). The Argentine judiciary's long-standing position and the recent court ruling reinforce the narrative that Iran is culpable.
Conclusion
The claim that Javier Milei blames Iran for the 1992 and 1994 terrorist attacks in Buenos Aires is True. This assertion is supported by judicial findings, statements from U.S. officials, and the consistent reporting of credible news sources. The evidence points to Iran's involvement in orchestrating these attacks, aligning with Milei's statements and the broader consensus among authorities investigating the incidents.
Sources
- Cardin, Rubio Resolution Honors Argentina's Jewish Community Victims of Terrorist Attacks. Foreign Senate
- Argentina's Milei vows justice in 1994 bombing of Jewish community. Reuters
- Statement by Secretary Blinken On the 30th Anniversary of the AMIA Terrorist Attack. U.S. Embassy
- Argentine court blames Iran and Hezbollah for deadly 1994 Jewish center bombing. AP News
- Argentine Court Blames Iran for 1990s Bombings of Israeli Embassy and AMIA. The New York Times
