In a significant show of solidarity with Israel, Hungarian Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Péter Szijjártó publicly condemned the legal proceedings initiated against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. This statement, made through his social media platforms, underscores Hungary's firm stance in the geopolitical landscape and its unwavering support for Israel amidst complex international disputes.
Szijjártó's message followed his congratulatory call to the new Israeli Foreign Minister, appointed as part of the Israeli government's coalition agreement. This exchange highlights the robust diplomatic relations between Hungary and Israel, as both nations navigate the intricate dynamics of Middle East politics. In his communication, Szijjártó emphasized Hungary's denouncement of the legal challenge against Israel, aligning with the global interest in successful counter-terrorism operations. His words reflect a shared commitment to preventing brutal terrorist attacks worldwide.
Hungary condemns the legal attack launched against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said on Tuesday on his social media page.@GraceOSllvn https://t.co/2T55qyaHyh
— Speak For Rights (@SpeakForRights) January 10, 2024
The discussion between the two ministers also touched upon the deeply concerning issue of innocent hostages. They concurred on the necessity for the swift release of all individuals held by Hamas, including a dual Israeli-Hungarian citizen currently in custody. This aspect of their conversation brings to light the human dimension of international politics, where individual lives are significantly impacted by broader geopolitical events.
Szijjártó announced plans for a face-to-face meeting in Jerusalem, promising continued high-level dialogues to strengthen their alliance. This forthcoming meeting in Israel's capital is a testament to the proactive and collaborative approach both nations are taking in addressing regional and global challenges.
Péter Szijjártó, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, spoke with Ron Dermer, Israel’s Minister of Strategic Affairs, by phone on Monday. https://t.co/6E2tfq9Vgb
— About Hungary (@abouthungary) January 3, 2024
In contrast, South Africa's stance presents a divergent view. In late December, the country requested an urgent order from the International Court of Justice, accusing Israel of violating the Genocide Convention through its military actions against Hamas in Gaza. South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation expressed grave concern for the civilians in Gaza, highlighting reports of human rights violations and war crimes in the region. Their call for an interim order to suspend Israeli military operations in Gaza stems from a perceived obligation under the Genocide Convention to prevent such atrocities.
Israeli Foreign Minister Katz, in his response on X (formerly Twitter), expressed gratitude to Hungary for its staunch support. He acknowledged Hungary's commitment to standing with Israel against South Africa's allegations at the International Court of Justice. Katz's statement elucidates Israel's perspective on the role of the International Court of Justice, viewing it as a protector of the attacked rather than a defender of the aggressors.
סיימתי כעת שיחה מצוינת עם שר החוץ של הונגריה, פטר סיירטו, ידיד אמת של ישראל 🇮🇱🤝🇭🇺. השר סיירטו התחייב להמשיך לעמוד לצידה של ישראל בזירה הבינלאומית, ובפרט נגד התביעה האבסורדית של דרום אפריקה בבית הדין הבינלאומי בהאג. ביקשתי מהשר להגביר את הלחץ הבינלאומי על חמאס לשחרור מיידי של… https://t.co/g2NwGtA5tn pic.twitter.com/1LDuFUlG8f
— ישראל כ”ץ Israel Katz (@Israel_katz) January 9, 2024
South Africa's case against Israel is rooted in allegations of "genocidal" acts in Gaza, claiming Israel's actions against Palestinians in Gaza constitute a broader attempt to destroy the Palestinian people. Israel vehemently denies these accusations, with Israeli foreign ministry spokesman Lior Haiat rejecting South Africa's claims as baseless and offensive.
The conflict, which escalated following a severe antisemitic attack by Hamas on October 7, has entered its thirteenth week. Northern Gaza lies in ruins, with Israeli military efforts now concentrated in the central and southern districts. This ongoing conflict not only underscores the deep-seated tensions in the region but also reflects the complex international discourse surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with nations like Hungary and South Africa taking starkly different stances on the global stage.
