Hungary’s Prime Minister-elect Peter Magyar said Tuesday that Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must be arrested if he enters Hungary. The statement refers to an International Criminal Court warrant issued in 2024. The move signals a major shift in Hungary’s legal and foreign policy stance.
Magyar said Hungary, as an ICC member, is obligated to detain individuals subject to court warrants. He stressed alignment with international law in future governance decisions. Moreover, his remarks contrast sharply with the previous government’s position.
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Under former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Hungary refused to act on the ICC warrant during Netanyahu’s 2025 visit. However, Magyar’s incoming administration has pledged to reverse that approach. Additionally, he confirmed plans to halt Hungary’s withdrawal from the ICC.
The policy shift could significantly affect Hungary’s relations within the European Union and with Israel. Analysts say the change may ease long-standing tensions between Budapest and EU institutions. Furthermore, it could unlock stalled EU decisions on foreign policy and funding.
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Meanwhile, EU officials expect renewed progress on Ukraine financial support and sanctions discussions. Diplomatic sources say Hungary’s new position removes a key obstacle to consensus. However, broader EU decisions on Israel-related measures will still require wider political agreement.