Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has openly criticized the International Criminal Court's decision to issue an arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Orbán denounced the warrant as an interference in an ongoing conflict for political purposes, stating that it undermines international law and escalates tensions.
The arrest warrant, issued by the ICC based in The Hague, also targeted Netanyahu's former defense minister and Hamas' military chief in connection with alleged crimes against humanity during the 13-month war in Gaza. The charges include accusations of using starvation as a method of warfare and intentionally targeting civilians, which Israeli officials deny.
Orbán, a close ally of Netanyahu, called the arrest warrant 'outrageously impudent' and vowed to defy it by inviting Netanyahu to Hungary. Despite the requirement for member countries to detain suspects facing ICC warrants, the court lacks enforcement mechanisms.
Israeli allies, including some European countries, are faced with a dilemma following the warrants. While Israel and the United States are not ICC members, countries like France have welcomed the court's decision and signaled potential arrest if Netanyahu visits.
The White House expressed deep concern over the arrest warrants, citing process errors in the decision-making. President Joe Biden's administration criticized the rush to seek arrest warrants by the ICC.
Netanyahu, in response, praised Hungary for its stance against the warrant, commending the country for displaying moral clarity and standing by justice and truth. The Israeli Prime Minister emphasized the right of the State of Israel to defend itself amid the ongoing conflict.
The ICC's action comes as the death toll from Israel's campaign in Gaza surpasses 44,000, with local health authorities reporting a significant number of women and children among the casualties. The situation remains complex as international reactions vary regarding the arrest warrants issued by the ICC.
