Tue Apr 08 09:00:10 UTC 2025: ## Netanyahu’s US Trip Sparks ICC Controversy as Hungary Withdraws

**The Hague/Washington D.C. –** Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent trip to the United States has highlighted the ongoing tension surrounding the International Criminal Court (ICC). Netanyahu reportedly took a detour to avoid airspace of European countries that could enforce an ICC arrest warrant issued last November for alleged war crimes against Palestinians in Gaza. The warrant, which also targets former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and a Hamas commander, has sparked international debate and prompted Hungary, Netanyahu’s recent host, to withdraw from the ICC.

The ICC, established in 2002 under the Rome Statute, prosecutes individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and aggression. While 125 states are members, the US is not, having withdrawn its signature from the Rome Statute in 2002. The US, under both the Trump and Biden administrations, has strongly condemned the ICC warrant against Netanyahu, calling it politically motivated.

Hungary’s withdrawal, announced just before Netanyahu’s visit, adds to the complexities. While the withdrawal takes effect after a year, the Netherlands, which hosts the ICC, insists Hungary must still fulfill its obligations until then. Other European Union nations remain divided on the issue, with some pledging to uphold their commitments to the ICC while others express legal concerns or believe Netanyahu has immunity.

The ICC’s ongoing investigations cover several conflicts, including those in Afghanistan, Ukraine, and the DRC. To date, the court has issued at least 60 arrest warrants and secured 11 convictions, though only six relate to core war crimes and crimes against humanity charges.

This situation underscores the ICC’s controversial position in the international arena, with its attempts to hold individuals accountable for grave crimes clashing with the sovereignty concerns of some nations, particularly those who are not members or who object to its jurisdiction.

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