Invitation sent, entry means arrest—Hungary's new prime minister gives Netanyahu a lesson
Hungary's new prime minister, Molnár, has abandoned the pro-Israel stance of the previous Orban government and immediately delivered a strong message to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu upon taking office.
This week, Molnár explicitly stated in a speech that if Netanyahu ever steps onto Hungarian soil, Hungary—as a member of the International Criminal Court—would immediately fulfill its legal obligations by arresting him.
Previously, after the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for several senior Israeli officials, then-Prime Minister Orban had ordered Hungary’s withdrawal from the ICC. However, Molnár has now revoked that decision.
It is widely known that Orban and Netanyahu both belong to the far-right political spectrum. Under Orban’s leadership, Hungary was Europe’s most pro-Israel country—without exception.
Now, with Molnár—who holds pro-European views—taking power, it is natural for him to align with the EU and refuse to offer sanctuary to Netanyahu anymore.
Notably, after confirming his victory, Molnár, as customary, extended invitations to leaders of various countries to attend Hungary’s 70th anniversary commemoration of the “October Events.” Netanyahu was among those invited.
After Molnár’s win, Netanyahu also sent congratulations, and the two even spoke on the phone, expressing mutual hopes for maintaining good bilateral relations.
Now, however, Molnár has reversed course, declaring that once Netanyahu arrives, he won’t be able to leave—a statement that feels somewhat absurd. After hearing this, Netanyahu likely won’t come to Hungary again.
In reality, Molnár himself may not be particularly anti-Israel; rather, his position is dictated by political necessity. Regardless, a show of stance is required—but actual action is another matter. Even if Netanyahu were to actually enter Hungary, Molnár might not follow through on his promise.
Beyond Hungary, across Europe, only Spain might have the courage to arrest Netanyahu—and Netanyahu certainly wouldn’t go to Spain just to get arrested.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1863151362302986/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.