By Staff Writer with Agencies
Budapest, Hungary – In a move that has drawn international scrutiny, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced today that his country has begun the process of withdrawing from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The decision coincided with the arrival of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Budapest, marking his first trip to Europe since the ICC issued an arrest warrant against him for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
The withdrawal announcement follows weeks of speculation regarding Hungary’s stance on the ICC, particularly after Orbán publicly condemned the court’s decision to issue arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. In a statement, Orbán denounced the ruling as “brazen, cynical, and completely unacceptable,” reinforcing Hungary’s commitment to its longstanding alliance with Israel.
It’s time for Hungary to review what we’re doing in an international organization that is under US sanctions! New winds are blowing in international politics. We call it the Trump-tornado.https://t.co/zp1mfTbTw9
— Orbán Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) February 7, 2025
Hungary’s Legal Position
Hungary, a founding member of the ICC, ratified the Rome Statute in 2001. However, according to Gergely Gulyás, Orbán’s chief of staff, the statute was never incorporated into Hungarian law, rendering the court’s jurisdiction ineffective within the country. Gulyás confirmed that the formal process of withdrawal has now been initiated and will be presented to Hungary’s parliament, which is dominated by Orbán’s ruling Fidesz party and is expected to approve the measure swiftly.
The announcement has raised concerns among legal experts and human rights organizations, who argue that Hungary’s withdrawal could undermine the ICC’s role in addressing war crimes and crimes against humanity. Critics view the decision as part of a broader pattern of defying international institutions that challenge Hungary’s policies.
Political and Diplomatic Implications
Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary highlights the close relationship between the two leaders, who have both faced criticism for their handling of democratic institutions and human rights issues. Hungary has consistently used its influence within the European Union to shield Israel from condemnation, often blocking EU statements critical of Israeli actions in Palestine.
While Netanyahu has not publicly commented on Hungary’s ICC withdrawal, his administration has strongly opposed the court’s investigation into Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The ICC warrant accuses Netanyahu and Gallant of being responsible for acts such as murder, persecution, and the use of starvation as a weapon of war during the ongoing Israeli military campaign, which has resulted in over 50,400 Palestinian casualties since October 2023.
Global Reactions
The announcement has prompted swift reactions from the international community. The European Commission expressed concern over Hungary’s decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding international justice mechanisms. Meanwhile, human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, condemned the move as a setback for accountability and justice for victims of war crimes.
Orbán’s critics also argue that his decision to withdraw from the ICC aligns with broader efforts to distance Hungary from international oversight, particularly after past disputes with the European Union over judicial independence and democratic backsliding. Additionally, Hungary’s move follows similar rhetoric from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who imposed sanctions on ICC prosecutors in response to investigations into alleged American war crimes.
Next Steps
Under ICC regulations, Hungary’s withdrawal will take effect one year after the formal notice is submitted. However, legal experts note that any pending investigations or cases initiated before the withdrawal remain within the court’s jurisdiction.
As Hungary moves forward with its exit, international observers will be closely watching whether other nations follow suit, further challenging the ICC’s authority. For now, the decision underscores the growing geopolitical rift between Western institutions and nationalist leaders seeking to redefine international law and accountability.
Staff Writers at Open Chronicle produce in-depth, field-informed reporting on defense, diplomacy, cultural transformation, and global affairs. Known for clarity, accuracy, and analytical depth, they connect breaking developments to broader historical and strategic contexts. In addition to frontline journalism, Staff Writers also contribute to the Open Chronicle Encyclopedia, crafting authoritative entries that preserve critical knowledge and enrich public understanding.