Hungary has officially declared its intent to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, a move that coincides with the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces serious legal challenges internationally.
Hungary Announces Withdrawal from the International Criminal Court Amid Netanyahu Visit
Hungary Announces Withdrawal from the International Criminal Court Amid Netanyahu Visit
Hungary's decision to leave the I.C.C. follows a controversial visit from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is under an arrest warrant.
On April 3, 2025, Hungary's government released a statement announcing its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (I.C.C.), just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was in Budapest despite an international arrest warrant against him. The announcement came from Prime Minister Viktor Orban's administration, which indicated its refusal to comply with the I.C.C. obligations resulting from the 1998 Treaty of Rome.
Instead of detaining Netanyahu upon arrival, Hungary welcomed him ceremoniously at Buda Castle, highlighting a relationship seemingly unaffected by the international legal proceedings against the Israeli leader. Gergely Gulyas, Orban's chief of staff, confirmed the start of the withdrawal process via Facebook, stating it would be conducted in line with Hungary's constitutional and international law frameworks.
This decision surfaces as the I.C.C. had previously issued arrest warrants in November for both Netanyahu and former defense minister Yoav Gallant on accusations of war crimes and crimes against humanity concerning actions in Gaza. The situation continues to evolve, with further developments anticipated.
