Hungary is preparing for an official announcement of leaving the International Criminal Court (ICS) during the visit of Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyag to Budapest. This was reported by Free Europe, referring to sources in the government of the country.
Hungary's decision is connected with the Netanyaga arrest warrant issued in November 2024, which was accused of war crimes during gas conflict. The official Budapest condemned the decision, and the country's prime minister Viktor Orban called him "politically motivated".
Last week, during a meeting of ambassadors at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Minister of Justice Bens Tuzson told diplomats about the country's intention to start the procedure for leaving the ISS.
Hungary can take about a year. To do this, the government must submit an appropriate resolution to the Parliament, where most deputies should approve. It is expected that the official announcement of the beginning of this process will take place during Netanyag's stay in Budapest.
Hungary's decision has already been criticized by international human rights organizations. In particular, Human Rights Watch called on Budapest to fulfill its obligations to the ISS and arrest Netanyaga in accordance with the order.
Nevertheless, the Hungarian authorities continue to demonstrate the support of Israel and calls into question the legitimacy of the ISS. If Hungary officially goes out of court, it will become the first EU country to take such a step.
