Hungary's New Prime Minister Vows to Honor ICC Warrants Against Netanyahu
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BUDAPEST, April 20, 2026 — Hungary's newly appointed Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced Monday that his government will comply with International Criminal Court arrest warrants issued against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marking a sharp policy reversal from his predecessor's stance on the matter.
Speaking at a press conference in Budapest, Orbán stated that Hungary would adhere to its obligations under the Rome Statute, the treaty establishing the ICC. The declaration contrasts with the position held by the previous administration, which refused to enforce the warrants and maintained diplomatic ties with Israel despite the court's rulings.
The ICC issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant in March 2024, accusing them of war crimes and crimes against humanity related to the conflict in Gaza. The warrants require signatory nations to detain the officials if they enter their territory.
Orbán's announcement comes as Hungary navigates a complex diplomatic landscape. The country has historically maintained close relations with Israel, and the previous government faced criticism from European allies for shielding Netanyahu from the court's authority. The new administration's decision signals a potential realignment of Hungary's foreign policy priorities within the European Union.
Legal experts note that the decision places Hungary in a difficult position regarding international law and bilateral relations. Compliance with the warrants could strain ties with Israel, while non-compliance risks sanctions from the ICC and criticism from other EU member states.
The Israeli government has not yet commented on Orbán's statement. However, previous Israeli officials have threatened to sever diplomatic relations with any country that attempts to enforce the warrants.
Orbán emphasized that the decision was based on legal obligations rather than political considerations. "We must respect international law," he said during the briefing. "This is not a political statement, but a legal one."
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from international observers. Some EU officials have welcomed the move as a step toward upholding international justice, while others question the timing and motivations behind the policy shift.
It remains unclear how the new government will handle potential visits by Israeli officials or whether Hungary will actively seek to enforce the warrants. The ICC has not indicated whether it will take further action regarding Hungary's compliance.
The situation continues to develop as diplomatic channels remain open between Budapest and Jerusalem. Observers are watching closely to see how the new administration balances its legal commitments with its strategic interests in the region.