Hungary Announces Withdrawal from International Criminal Court during Netanyahu's Visit

On April 3, 2025, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced Hungary's intention to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), coinciding with an official visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Budapest. This decision positions Hungary as the first European Union member state to leave the ICC, aligning it with the Philippines and Burundi, the only other nations to have exited the court.

Orbán criticized the ICC as a political entity rather than a judicial one, stating that Hungary's membership had been "half-hearted" due to the Rome Statute never being fully integrated into national law. He emphasized that the ICC's recent actions, particularly the arrest warrant issued for Netanyahu in November 2024 over alleged war crimes in Gaza, exemplified the court's politicization. Orbán assured Netanyahu that the warrant would have "no effect" in Hungary, ensuring the Israeli leader's safe visit despite the ICC's mandate.

The withdrawal process requires Hungary to notify the United Nations Secretary-General, initiating a one-year period before the exit takes effect. During this time, Hungary remains legally obligated to cooperate with ongoing ICC cases, including the arrest warrant for Netanyahu. This move has drawn criticism from international organizations and human rights groups, which emphasize Hungary's duty to enforce ICC rulings.

Netanyahu praised Hungary's decision, describing it as a "bold and principled" stand. The two leaders also discussed the development with former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been a vocal critic of the ICC. Trump previously imposed sanctions on the court following its investigation into Israel's actions in Gaza.

The European Union remains divided on the issue, with countries like France and Germany expressing varying positions. The ICC's Assembly of State Parties expressed concern over Hungary's decision and urged the country to remain committed to its obligations under the Rome Statute.

Hungary's planned exit from the ICC represents a significant break from the positions of most European Union countries, which typically uphold ICC rulings. The decision underscores Hungary's growing skepticism toward international institutions and aligns with its broader foreign policy stance of prioritizing national sovereignty.

As the withdrawal process unfolds, the international community will closely monitor Hungary's actions and their implications for international justice and political alliances.