Hungary has officially announced its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC) during a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The move has sparked significant international attention, as Hungary becomes the first European Union member state to take such a step. The decision to leave the ICC comes amid growing tensions over its perceived bias, particularly regarding its investigations into Israeli actions in the Palestinian territories.
Hungarian officials cited concerns over the ICC’s jurisdiction and the ongoing probes into Israel’s military operations, which they argue unfairly target the country. This bold move reflects Hungary’s long-standing support for Israel, with Prime Minister Viktor Orban emphasizing the importance of preserving national sovereignty and opposing what he described as politically motivated judicial actions.
The timing of the announcement, coinciding with Netanyahu visit, underscores the strengthening of bilateral ties between Hungary and Israel. While the move has been hailed by some as a stand for national independence, it has also drawn criticism from various international bodies, including human rights organizations and EU officials, who view it as a blow to international justice and accountability. The fallout from this decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for Hungary’s relations with the EU and its stance on global human rights issues.