Hungary Withdraws from International Criminal Court
Hungary has decided to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán stating that the court has shifted from a judicial institution to a political one. The announcement came during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Budapest.
The decision follows the ICC’s recent arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza. Orbán criticized the court’s approach, saying Hungary no longer views it as an impartial body.
Hungary’s withdrawal process requires formal notification to the United Nations and will take effect one year after submission. Until then, the country remains obligated to cooperate with ongoing ICC investigations.
The move has drawn mixed reactions. Some argue it reflects Hungary’s commitment to national sovereignty, while critics, including human rights organizations, warn that it could undermine international accountability. The European Union has also expressed concern, emphasizing the ICC’s role in upholding global justice.
If the withdrawal proceeds, Hungary will become the first European Union member to leave the ICC.
