On May 20, 2025, Hungary's National Assembly approved a bill to withdraw from the International Criminal Court (ICC), making it the first European Union member state to take such action. The decision, passed with 134 votes in favor and 37 against, follows the government's assertion that the ICC has transitioned from an impartial legal body to a political instrument.

The withdrawal process will take effect one year after Hungary formally notifies the United Nations Secretary-General. This move coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Budapest, during which Hungary criticized the ICC's arrest warrant against Netanyahu as "brazen" and declared it would not arrest him.

Established by the Rome Statute in 2002, the ICC is a permanent international tribunal tasked with prosecuting individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and the crime of aggression. Hungary became a founding member in 2001, aligning with EU commitments to uphold international justice.

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has criticized the ICC as a political body rather than a court of law. He stated that Hungary's membership was "half-hearted" and that the country never fully ratified the ICC’s statute into national law, rendering its membership ineffective.

The withdrawal announcement closely followed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Hungary. The ICC had issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu over alleged war crimes in Gaza, which he denies. During his visit, Hungary criticized the ICC's warrant as "brazen" and declared it would not arrest Netanyahu. Netanyahu praised Hungary's decision to withdraw from the ICC as a "bold and principled" move.

The ICC's Assembly of States Parties expressed concern over Hungary's decision, emphasizing that withdrawal does not absolve Hungary of its obligations under the Rome Statute during the withdrawal period. Amnesty International condemned Hungary's move, stating that it undermines global human rights standards and does not absolve Hungary of its legal obligation to arrest individuals subject to ICC warrants.

Hungary's withdrawal from the ICC raises questions about the EU's commitment to international justice and the rule of law. The EU has traditionally supported the ICC as a means to uphold human rights and accountability. Hungary's move may affect the EU's credibility on the international stage and its ability to present a unified foreign policy.

Hungary's decision reflects a broader trend of countries challenging international legal institutions. It highlights the interplay between political alliances and legal obligations, particularly in the context of Hungary's relationship with Israel.

Hungary's withdrawal from the ICC marks a significant shift in its foreign policy and raises critical questions about the future of international justice and the cohesion of the European Union.