Hungary made waves last week by announcing its withdrawal from the International Criminal Court (ICC), following a historic visit from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This decision comes on the heels of an arrest warrant for Netanyahu issued by the ICC last November, which Hungary had previously declared it would not honour. The reactions to this bold move have been mixed, with Hamas expressing condemnation, while much of the Arab world remained notably silent.
In a vehement statement, Hamas branded Hungary’s withdrawal as an immoral act, indicating it signifies complicity with a fugitive from international justice. They warned that this decision jeopardises global peace and stability and urged Hungary to rescind its action, demanding the arrest and handover of Netanyahu to face justice for alleged crimes against Palestinians.
Human rights NGOs rallied alongside Hamas, denouncing Hungary’s choice. Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International, described the move as an endorsement of genocide against Palestinians, advising other ICC members to avoid Hungary’s path. The International Federation for Human Rights called for Hungary to face repercussions and even suggested stripping it of its EU voting rights for this withdrawal.
Despite calls for action, that momentum seemed to stall. Annalena Baerbock, the outgoing German Foreign Minister, joined in the criticism, remarking that no individual is above the law within the EU. However, her claim inaccurately implies a legal obligation that does not exist. Noteworthy is that both Baerbock and her Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, had earlier remarked on arrangements to host Netanyahu in Germany, underscoring a hypocrisy in the condemnation.
Hungary’s ICC departure comes as part of a broader narrative, following the ICC issuing arrest warrants against Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant in November 2024 for alleged war crimes related to the Gaza conflict. Orbán’s invitation to Netanyahu indicated a disregard for these warrants, reassuring that they would not be observed.
The withdrawal highlights Hungary’s shifting political landscape, further complicated by global interactions, such as Trump’s previous withdrawal of the US from the WHO and the broader implications of international sanctions. Hungary has taken significant actions against the ICC, marking a second major blow to the court in recent months following Russia’s visit to Mongolia, also under similar circumstances.
During Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary, discussions spanned defence cooperation and the safety of Hungary’s Jewish community. Orbán emphasised the nation’s stance against Hamas, affirming that no Hamas flags would be tolerated in Hungarian territory. Key meetings focused on enhancing economic ties and technological collaboration between Hungary and Israel, solidifying their partnership moving forward.
Hungary’s recent withdrawal from the ICC following an Israeli Prime Minister’s visit has sparked outrage from Hamas and human rights NGOs. The latter have condemned Hungary’s decision as complicity with a war criminal and violations of international law, demanding accountability. Despite these calls, perceived hypocrisy from some European leaders highlights the complexities of international legal obligations, while Hungary strengthens its ties with Israel in the midst of global condemnation.
Hungary’s withdrawal from the ICC has stirred not only condemnation from Hamas but also concern among international human rights organisations. Many argue this action violates international law and enables criminals to evade justice. As global political dynamics evolve, Hungary’s stance showcases its shifting loyalties and the complexities of international relations, particularly concerning Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The resulting repercussions remain to be seen, but the implications of this decision may reverberate throughout Europe and beyond.
Original Source: www.hungarianconservative.com
