Despite Netanyahu invitation, Hungary’s new PM signals ICC warrant could be enforced

Magyar’s position raises the possibility that his government may reconsider or reverse Orbán’s earlier decision to leave the ICC.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

Hungary’s newly elected leader Peter Magyar said his government may be required to honor the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, despite having previously extended an invitation to him, according to Agence France-Presse,

Magyar indicated that Hungary could be obligated to act in accordance with ICC commitments if it remains a member of the court, suggesting that any individual subject to an active warrant could face detention.

His remarks signal a potential shift in policy from the previous government led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, which had taken a pro-Israel stance.

Magyar’s position raises the possibility that his government may reconsider or reverse Orbán’s earlier decision to leave the ICC.

While the new leader had initially appeared likely to continue Orbán’s approach toward Israel, his latest comments suggest a reassessment of Hungary’s legal obligations under international frameworks.

Magyar said that his prior invitation to Netanyahu was issued as a courtesy tied to a specific national commemoration.

He clarified that the invitation did not negate Hungary’s responsibilities regarding the ICC warrant.

On November 21, 2024, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. The court accuses both of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel denies the charges.

Magyar’s statements introduce uncertainty over Hungary’s future handling of ICC-related matters and its approach to Israeli officials facing legal action from the court.

On Sunday, Hungarians voted to replace Orbán in a landslide election, ousting the 62-year-old right-wing premier who has governed the country since 2010, following a four-year stint in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Orbán is a staunch supporter of Israel and an ally of Netanyahu, and his defeat raised concerns in Israel that the election could threaten Jerusalem’s strong ties with Budapest.