Hungary Moves to Quit ICC as Netanyahu Receives Red Carpet Welcome in Budapest

Hungary has announced plans to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), a move that comes just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Budapest to a grand reception. The decision aligns with Hungary’s vocal opposition to the ICC’s recent arrest warrant against Netanyahu over alleged war crimes.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán welcomed Netanyahu with full military honors at Budapest’s historic Castle District. The two leaders stood side by side as a military band played, while soldiers on horseback and in ceremonial uniforms paraded in a show of state-level support.

During the reception, Orbán’s chief of staff, Gergely Gulyás, issued a statement confirming that the Hungarian government will initiate the process of leaving the ICC. This process could take over a year to complete. Later, Orbán criticized the ICC as a “political court,” arguing that it had lost its impartiality.

Netanyahu’s trip to Hungary marks only his second foreign visit since the ICC issued an arrest warrant against him and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in November. The court claims there is evidence suggesting their involvement in crimes against humanity during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The war escalated following Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which left approximately 1,200 dead and resulted in 251 hostages. In response, Israel launched an aggressive military campaign in Gaza, leading to over 50,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Israel, however, asserts that 20,000 of those killed were militants but has not provided verification.

The ICC also issued warrants for three Hamas leaders, all of whom were later killed.

Following the ICC’s indictment, Orbán invited Netanyahu to Budapest, openly defying the court’s authority. Hungary, a signatory to the ICC since 2001, is technically obligated to enforce arrest warrants issued by the court. However, Orbán has dismissed these obligations, accusing the ICC of politically motivated interference in ongoing conflicts.

During a joint news conference, Orbán reiterated his stance:

“The ICC is no longer an impartial court, but a political tool. This is most evident in its decisions regarding Israel.”

He further declared that Hungary “cannot and does not want to engage” with an institution he views as compromised.

Netanyahu, in turn, praised Hungary’s decision, calling it a “bold and principled move.”

“The ICC targets those fighting just wars with just means. Hungary is the first country to walk away from this corruption, and I believe it will be deeply appreciated worldwide.”

The ICC has strongly condemned Hungary’s refusal to comply with its arrest warrant, with spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah stating:

“Hungary remains under a duty to cooperate with the ICC.”

Hamas also denounced the move, calling it an “immoral stance” that enables a “war criminal to escape justice.” The group urged Hungary to reverse its decision and comply with international law.

Netanyahu’s foreign visits serve not only as diplomatic engagements but also as efforts to bolster his political standing at home. His government faces growing protests over its handling of the war, concerns over hostages still held by Hamas, and internal political maneuvering perceived as an attempt to consolidate power.

Israel recently resumed military operations in Gaza, breaking a ceasefire and halting all food, fuel, and humanitarian aid to the enclave in an effort to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages.

With Hungary now set to exit the ICC, the move raises broader questions about the court’s influence and the future of international legal cooperation in prosecuting war crimes. The decision also underscores Orbán’s willingness to challenge EU norms and further align with Netanyahu’s embattled leadership on the world stage.