Sun Mar 30 15:43:48 UTC 2025: ## Netanyahu to Visit Hungary Despite ICC War Crimes Warrant
BUDAPEST – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will visit Hungary this week, despite an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant issued against him for alleged war crimes in Gaza. The visit, from Wednesday to Sunday, comes at the invitation of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has publicly stated Hungary will not enforce the warrant.
Orban, a right-wing nationalist, has repeatedly clashed with the European Union. His refusal to cooperate with the ICC’s decision raises concerns about Hungary’s commitment to international law. While Hungary is obligated as an EU member to comply with ICC rulings, there has been no official response from Budapest regarding the upcoming visit.
According to reports, Netanyahu aims to secure Hungarian support for a controversial plan, reportedly proposed by former US President Donald Trump, to effectively ethnically cleanse Gaza and transform it into a resort. Hungary has not publicly commented on this plan, but Netanyahu’s visit suggests he is actively seeking international backing for it.
This will be Netanyahu’s second foreign trip since the ICC issued warrants for him and former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. Israel has vehemently rejected the ICC charges as “false and absurd.” The ICC has also issued a warrant for Hamas leader Ibrahim Al-Masri. The visit underscores the complex geopolitical situation surrounding the Gaza conflict and the challenges faced by the ICC in enforcing its decisions.
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