Hungary’s government announced on Thursday its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), just before Prime Minister Viktor Orban is set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is under an ICC arrest warrant.
“Hungary exits the International Criminal Court. The government will initiate the withdrawal procedure on Thursday, in accordance with the constitutional and international legal framework,” Gergely Gulyas, Orban’s chief of staff, posted on Facebook.
The announcement comes as Netanyahu is scheduled to visit Hungary, raising questions about the timing and implications of Hungary’s withdrawal. The ICC issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged human rights violations, making Hungary’s departure from the court particularly significant ahead of the visit.
Hungary’s move to exit the ICC aligns it with several other countries that have criticized the court for perceived biases and jurisdictional overreach. The decision has sparked discussions about international justice and the balance between national sovereignty and accountability.
The ICC, based in The Hague, prosecutes individuals for genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Hungary joined the ICC in 2001 but has now decided to step back from the international legal body.
Critics argue that withdrawing from the ICC undermines global efforts to hold leaders accountable for serious crimes. Supporters of the decision claim it protects national interests and sovereignty.
As the world watches the developments, Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary is expected to proceed, with both leaders likely to address bilateral relations and regional issues.
