Hungary has announced its decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), making it the first European Union country to take such a step. This move comes amid rising tensions over the ICC’s recent actions, particularly its warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s arrest. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban criticized the ICC, calling it a "political court," and pointed to the warrant as evidence of this bias.
Netanyahu praised Hungary’s decision, calling it "bold and principled." He emphasized the importance of standing up to what he described as a corrupt organization. Following discussions with Orban, the two leaders also spoke with former U.S. President Donald Trump about the implications of Hungary’s withdrawal.
Hungary’s foreign policy under Orban has leaned towards strengthening ties with Israel while expressing skepticism towards international institutions that are seen as infringing on national sovereignty. The withdrawal from the ICC does not impact ongoing cases, but it raises questions about how other countries might respond to the ICC’s authority in light of political alliances.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, also expressed gratitude towards Orban for his support, arguing that the ICC had lost its moral authority by targeting Israel’s right to self-defense. This sentiment reflects a broader criticism of the ICC from nations that feel its actions are politically motivated.
To formalize its exit from the ICC, Hungary must send a written notification to the UN Secretary-General. The withdrawal will take effect one year later, in accordance with the Rome Statute that established the court. Despite Hungary’s decision, the ICC continues to operate with significant international backing, having faced similar challenges in the past.
The ICC’s spokesman, Fadi El-Abdullah, reiterated that Hungary remains obligated to cooperate with the court, even as it prepares to withdraw. This situation complicates matters for Hungary, especially since it could technically be required to arrest Netanyahu and hand him over to the ICC, although member states often do not enforce such warrants.
In Europe, reactions to Hungary’s decision have been mixed. Some countries have indicated they would arrest Netanyahu if he visited, while others, like Germany, stated he would not be detained. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock described Hungary’s announcement as a setback for international criminal law, asserting that no one should be above the law in Europe.
The U.S. has also criticized the ICC’s warrant against Netanyahu, yet he has traveled to the U.S. since it was issued. His visit to Hungary marks his first trip to Europe since then, where he was warmly welcomed by Hungarian officials upon his arrival.