ICC demands Hungary justify failure to arrest Netanyahu

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has formally demanded that Hungary explain its failure to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit in April, despite an ICC arrest warrant for alleged crimes against humanity in Gaza. Hungary, which is a signatory to the Rome Statute and therefore obligated to comply with ICC warrants, has been asked to submit a detailed clarification by May 23, 2025. During Netanyahu's visit, Hungary announced plans to withdraw from the ICC, aligning itself with other states that have questioned or resisted the court's authority. This situation underscores significant divisions among European countries regarding the enforcement of ICC mandates, with some nations citing Netanyahu's immunity as a sitting head of government or Israel's non-ratification of the court's statutes. The ICC has triggered Article 87(7) proceedings, which could lead to Hungary being referred to the Assembly of States Parties or the UN Security Council for non-compliance. The case is seen as a major test of the ICC's ability to enforce its arrest orders against high-profile world leaders.