Hungary’s Embrace of Netanyahu Raises Questions About Values and Direction

Hungary still welcomes Israeli PM Netanyahu despite the ICC’s arrest warrant, which Hungary’s foreign minister called politically motivated. Péter Szijjártó reaffirmed Hungary’s support for Israel, criticized bias in international bodies, and emphasized Hungary’s commitment to Middle East peace, energy security, and Christian values. He also voiced hope for a diplomatic end to the Ukraine war and praised Hungary-Israel relations as strong and strategic.

To be honest, I find it deeply concerning that EU politicians — especially from a country like Hungary — would consider meeting with leaders who are facing serious accusations, including those related to genocide. Whether or not a final judgment has been made, the mere existence of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court should prompt caution, not warm invitations. It’s not just about diplomacy; it’s also about the values we represent. These kinds of meetings risk normalizing or even legitimizing actions that many around the world consider deeply unethical.

Moreover, I believe Hungary would benefit far more from drawing closer to Western democracies — countries that share our long-term interests in stability, human rights, and the rule of law. Turning our attention more and more toward the Middle East, especially in a context that seems to ignore international concerns, feels like a strategic misstep.

And I can’t help but wonder: what exactly is the urgency or importance of this visit? Why is our leadership so invested in pushing this meeting forward, even at the cost of our international credibility? It’s hard to see what Hungary truly gains from this — and easy to see what it risks losing.

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