Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived in Hungary on Thursday, marking his first visit to a country that recognizes the International Criminal Court (ICC) since the court issued an arrest warrant for him last year.
Hungary Rejects ICC Warrant, Considers Withdrawal
Despite Hungary being an ICC member, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán reaffirmed his support for Israel and dismissed the possibility of arresting Netanyahu. Shortly after his arrival, Hungarian officials announced plans to withdraw from the ICC, a move seen as a direct challenge to the court’s authority.
Israel Expands Military Operations in Gaza
As Netanyahu touched down in Budapest, Israel intensified its military operations in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced it was seizing large areas of the enclave in an effort to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages.
Netanyahu described the strategy as a “step-by-step” increase in pressure, including the establishment of a new security corridor, similar to the Philadelphi Corridor along Gaza’s border with Egypt.
Defense Minister Israel Katz also confirmed that “Operation Might and Sword” would expand, signaling Israel’s continued push against Hamas militants.
Humanitarian Issues and International Responses
There have been a lot of deaths in the conflict, which started following Hamas assaults on October 7, 2023. Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has killed over 50,000 people, according to local health officials.
International human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have called on Hungary to uphold international law and detain Netanyahu. Enforcement is doubtful, though, because Hungary has never incorporated the ICC’s decisions into its own domestic legal framework.
What Happens Next?
Other nations who question the legitimacy of the ICC might take inspiration from Hungary’s potential exit. Diplomatic efforts to end the situation are hampered by Israel’s continuous military operations in Gaza.
As Netanyahu disregards the arrest warrant, the world continues to be preoccupied with Israel’s actions in Gaza, Hungary’s stance, and the future of international justice.
Source: NBC News
