Hungary Plans to Exit the ICC Amid Netanyahu's Visit

Just as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu touched down for an official visit in Hungary, the nation declared its intention to leave the International Criminal Court (ICC), despite Netanyahu being the subject of an international arrest edict.

On Thursday, mere hours following Netanyahu's arrival, Hungary revealed plans to initiate its withdrawal from the ICC, demonstrating a significant snub to international legal norms.

Defying ICC Obligations

Prime Minister Viktor Orban's administration has previously indicated it will not adhere to its responsibilities concerning the ICC warrant – a stance highlighted by the undisturbed welcome of Netanyahu. Arriving in Budapest, the Israeli leader was greeted with full ceremonial honors at Buda Castle, symbolically overlooking the Danube.

Gergely Gulyas, chief of staff to Prime Minister Orban, announced that Hungary would commence the exit process from the International Criminal Court on Thursday, aligning with constitutional and international legal stipulations.

Netanyahu Under ICC Scrutiny

In November, the ICC issued warrants against Netanyahu and his former minister of defense, Yoav Gallant, accusing them of committing war crimes and other serious offenses against humanity in Gaza.