Hungary's exit from ICC: Aligning with Netanyahu's visit
Hungary has decided to leave the International Criminal Court, as announced at the beginning of the month by Gergely Gulyás, head of the prime minister's office of Viktor Orbán. On Tuesday, the Hungarian parliament voted to withdraw.
What do you need to know?
- Hungary will initiate the procedure to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, aligning with constitutional and international legal frameworks. On Tuesday, the Hungarian parliament voted on this matter.
- The decision to exit the ICC coincided with the visit of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Budapest, despite the ICC having issued an arrest warrant for him.
- Hungary has consistently asserted that Netanyahu can feel secure on their territory, highlighting their stance towards the ICC.
Why is Hungary leaving the ICC?
At the beginning of April, Gergely Gulyás, head of the Hungarian prime minister's office, announced that the government would commence the procedure to withdraw from the International Criminal Court. This decision was made in connection with the upcoming visit to Budapest by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is being pursued by the ICC on war crime charges.
The Hungarian parliament voted in favour of the country’s withdrawal from the International Criminal Court - announced on Tuesday by the Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó. "We are making this decision because we do not want to continue being part of a politicised institution that has lost its impartiality and credibility," said Szijjártó.
What happened after Benjamin Netanyahu's visit?
Netanyahu's visit to Budapest took place despite the arrest warrant issued by the ICC. Hungary had previously assured that the Israeli Prime Minister would not be arrested on their territory.
The International Criminal Court is now demanding explanations from Budapest. The global organisation in The Hague sent a letter to the Hungarian authorities. The ICC stated that Hungary violated its obligations by refusing to detain Netanyahu, despite an official request sent to Budapest on 3rd April, the day of the Prime Minister's arrival in the country. The Court gave Budapest time to respond until 23rd May.
What are the consequences for Netanyahu?
Netanyahu's visit to Budapest occurred despite the arrest warrant issued by the ICC. Hungary assured that the Israeli Prime Minister would not be arrested on their territory. This is Netanyahu's second foreign trip since the ICC issued the warrant in November 2024. He previously visited the White House where he met with Donald Trump.
What’s next for Hungary's relations with the ICC?
The procedure for Hungary’s exit from the ICC, announced on 3rd April, may take up to a year. Now, with the majority of parliament supporting the resolution on the matter, the government will officially begin the process of leaving the court.
