Budapest: Hungary announced its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday. Prime Minister Viktor Orban declared the court had become a “political tool.”
During a press conference in Budapest, Orban confirmed the decision while hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu, wanted by the ICC, called Hungary’s move “bold and principled.”
The Israeli leader praised Hungary’s support, calling it essential for defending democracies against “corrupt organizations.” No questions were taken during the briefing.
Netanyahu’s visit is his first in Europe since the ICC issued an arrest warrant against him in May 2024.
ICC Warrant
The ICC alleges Netanyahu committed war crimes, including “starvation as a method of warfare.” He dismissed the accusations as “absurd.”
The ICC relies on its member states to arrest suspects, but Hungary will not detain Netanyahu. Orban’s government instead offered him a red-carpet welcome.
Netanyahu arrived for a four-day visit, walking alongside Orban at Budapest’s Buda Castle. The leaders held closed-door discussions.
Hungary is one of Israel’s strongest allies in Europe, showing public support for Israel’s security.
EU Divided
Hungary’s withdrawal from the ICC will make it the only EU country outside the court. The European Union remains divided on the issue.
Countries like Ireland and Spain have said they would arrest Netanyahu if he enters their borders. France and Germany questioned the ICC’s jurisdiction.
More than 120 countries have signed the Rome Statute, forming the ICC, but major nations like the U.S., China, and Russia have not.
Hungarian officials said they will begin the withdrawal process immediately. The ICC has yet to issue a response.
Past ICC Warrants
Netanyahu’s arrest warrant marks the first time the ICC targeted a close U.S. ally. Russian President Vladimir Putin also faces ICC charges.
The ICC has also issued warrants for Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar, Mohammed Deif, and Ismail Haniyeh. All three were killed by Israel.
The United States has condemned the ICC’s decision against Netanyahu, with both Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump opposing the warrant.
Trump previously imposed sanctions on ICC officials investigating the U.S. and its allies.
Hungary’s decision signals growing global divides over the role of international courts in political conflicts.
