The International Criminal Court has launched proceedings against Hungary for refusing to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to Budapest earlier this month. Despite an active ICC arrest warrant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity committed in Gaza, Hungary welcomed the Israeli leader and, in the same breath, announced its withdrawal from the Court.

The ICC has demanded an explanation from Hungary by 23 May, underscoring that, as a member of the Rome Statute at the time of the visit, Hungary was legally obligated to arrest Netanyahu. By failing to do so, it is accused of not only breaching international law but also sabotaging global efforts for accountability in the face of mass atrocities.

Palestinian officials strongly condemned Hungary’s actions, describing them as a direct obstruction of justice and a clear alignment with impunity. Human rights organisations also criticised the move, warning that allowing leaders accused of crimes to move freely sets a dangerous precedent for the rule of international law.

Netanyahu’s visit to Hungary was his first trip abroad since the ICC warrant was issued in November 2024. His presence, rather than being discreet, became a statement—underscoring how political alliances continue to shield power from responsibility, even amid credible accusations of genocide and ethnic cleansing.

For Palestinians, this episode is a painful reminder that justice remains elusive. While courtrooms deliberate and states weigh political interests over human rights, the people of Gaza continue to suffer the consequences of a world where legal mechanisms are too often ignored by those who fear them most.