Magyar says Netanyahu would face arrest if he came to Hungary, but invitation remains

Hungary's Prime Minister-elect Péter Magyar has signaled a significant shift in foreign policy, indicating that his government would comply with International Criminal Court (ICC) warrants. This means that if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits Hungary while an active warrant exists, he would be subject to arrest.

This stance directly contrasts with the policies of outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who had previously announced Hungary's withdrawal from the ICC and assured Netanyahu that he would not face arrest during a visit. Magyar's commitment to keeping Hungary within the ICC framework and enforcing its mandates presents a potential early challenge to the new government's relationship with Israel.

“

that person must be taken into custody.

Magyar has emphasized Hungary's desire to maintain good relations with Israel, citing a "special relationship" and the presence of a large, peaceful Jewish community in Hungary. However, his administration's adherence to international legal obligations, as represented by the ICC, will be a key indicator of its approach to foreign policy and its place within the European legal order. The upcoming visit by Netanyahu, already invited, will serve as a crucial test case.

“

Hungary is home to a strong Jewish community - one of the largest in Europe - fortunately living in peace and security. Many Hungarian nationals live in Israel, and many Israeli citizens come here.