In a significant diplomatic move, Hungary has announced its intent to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), coinciding with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Budapest. The decision is particularly noteworthy given the court’s outstanding arrest warrant for Netanyahu concerning allegations of war crimes.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán warmly welcomed the Israeli leader in Budapest’s historic Castle District, complete with ceremonial military honors. The leaders watched on as a procession featuring soldiers, some on horseback, marched with swords and rifles. As the grand ceremony took place, Orbán’s chief of staff, Gergely Gulyás, revealed in a statement that Hungary plans to commence the withdrawal process from the court, a procedure that may extend over a year.
Orbán has characterized the ICC as a politically motivated body rather than a court of justice. This sentiment was reinforced during Netanyahu’s visit, his second international trip since the ICC issued its arrest warrant the previous November. The warrant accuses Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant of crimes against humanity linked to the conflict in Gaza.
The Gaza conflict erupted when militants entered southern Israel in October 2023, resulting in a tragic loss of approximately 1,200 Israeli lives, mostly civilians. Many hostages were taken but have since been released following various ceasefires and negotiations. Israel has rescued some hostages alive and recovered numerous bodies.
In response to these events, the ICC issued warrants against several Hamas leaders who have since been killed. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has reportedly resulted in over 50,000 Palestinian fatalities, although the enclave’s Health Ministry does not specify whether these are civilians or fighters. Israel claims a significant portion of these deaths are militants, though they have not provided specific evidence.
Following the ICC’s actions, Orbán extended an invitation to Netanyahu for a visit, openly criticizing the court’s interference in what he perceives as political dynamics rather than judicial fairness. This invitation stands in defiance of Hungary’s responsibilities as an ICC member, as the nation is obliged to arrest individuals with outstanding court-issued warrants should they enter its territory. Orbán’s Hungary joined the ICC in 2001.
At a subsequent press briefing, Orbán reiterated his stance that the ICC had lost its impartiality and become politically charged, specifically mentioning decisions involving Israel. Netanyahu commended Hungary’s move, calling it a “bold and principled decision” against what he described as the ICC’s corruption. He suggested that many nations worldwide would appreciate Hungary’s position.
However, Hungary’s defiance has not gone unnoticed. The ICC has expressed disappointment in Hungary’s decision and reminded the country of its obligation to cooperate with the court. Hamas reacted strongly, labeling Hungary’s withdrawal as “immoral” and urged them to reverse course and uphold Netanyahu’s accountability.
The visit represents an effort by Netanyahu to assert his statesmanship amidst domestic turmoil and protests. Many Israelis are unhappy with his recent decisions, including the continuation of military operations in Gaza and alleged attempts to sideline key officials, questioning his governance style and domestic priorities.
The Israeli government resumed its military efforts in Gaza, maintaining a blockade on essential goods to pressure Hamas into making concessions on hostages and negotiation terms. This approach continues to generate international criticism, with the ICC standing firm against Hungary’s defiance amid complex geopolitical tensions.