Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called upon Hungary to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should he visit the country. This plea follows an invitation from Prime Minister Viktor Orban for a scheduled visit this week. HRW highlights that, as a member of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Hungary is duty-bound to facilitate the arrest and surrender of any individuals charged with war crimes or crimes against humanity, including Netanyahu, who faces warrants issued by the ICC.
The ICC had previously issued arrest warrants for both Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant due to allegations related to their military actions in Gaza. HRW’s international justice director, Liz Evenson, expressed that Hungary’s compliance with its ICC obligations is paramount, stating, “Hungary should comply with its legal obligations as a party to the ICC and arrest Netanyahu if he sets foot in the country.”
HRW also expressed disappointment that several EU countries, like France and Germany, have failed to enforce the arrest warrant. The group believes that a united stance from EU leadership urging Hungary and other member states to act accordingly is essential. They assert that Orban’s invitation to Netanyahu disregards the rule of law and represents an affront to crime victims.
Orban has previously indicated his intention to invite Netanyahu, claiming any legal warrants would have no effect in Hungary, labelling them as ‘cynical’ political maneuvers affecting the Middle East conflict. Moreover, Amnesty International has echoed HRW’s demands for Hungary to fulfil its obligations by arresting Netanyahu upon his visit. The broader context encompasses ongoing legal challenges regarding Israel’s military conduct, including a genocide case at the International Court of Justice following significant casualties since the recent conflict escalation.
Human Rights Watch urges Hungary to arrest Prime Minister Netanyahu due to ICC warrants for war crimes. The organisation criticises Hungary’s compliance with international law and calls for a unified EU response. Orban’s invitation to Netanyahu is viewed as a breach of Hungary’s legal duties and raises concerns over the country’s commitment to human rights.
In summary, Human Rights Watch has pressed Hungary to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu if he visits, citing the country’s obligations as an ICC member. Concerns over Hungary’s adherence to the rule of law and the implications of Orban’s invitation to Netanyahu highlight a significant divergence in moral and legal responsibilities. With international pressure mounting for compliance, Hungary’s actions could set a critical precedent for future legal accountability regarding war crimes.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
