Israeli Minister Gulyás asserts Justice Reform as Internal Israeli Issue in Jerusalem
Gergely Gulyás, the Head of the Prime Minister’s Office in Hungary, visited Jerusalem to meet with several officials, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During his visit, Gulyás presented Hungary’s domestic and foreign policy positions to Israeli journalists and held talks with various government officials and law professors.
Regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, Gulyás expressed Hungary’s support for Europe’s view that Russia had committed aggression against Ukraine, emphasizing Hungary’s efforts to assist Ukrainian refugees and provide humanitarian and financial support. He stressed the importance of peace and a ceasefire, highlighting that Ukraine may not achieve more in the war than through peaceful negotiations. Gulyás also mentioned Hungary’s efforts to reduce dependency on Russian natural gas.
When asked about tensions with Brussels, Gulyás analyzed their causes and outlined Hungary’s EU policy and expectations from the federal system. Regarding a recent survey suggesting anti-Semitic views among a third of the Hungarian population, Gulyás questioned the credibility of the survey but affirmed the government’s commitment to zero tolerance for anti-Semitism. He highlighted the thriving Jewish religious and cultural life in Budapest and the government’s aim to maintain good relations with all Jewish religious communities.
Gulyás also discussed the issue of moving the US embassy to Jerusalem, stating that it was a topic addressed in all countries, including Hungary. He mentioned that the decision to follow Washington’s lead would be made at the prime ministerial level. When questioned about Israeli judicial reform, Gulyás stated that it was an internal matter for Israel to address.
The article also highlights protests outside Gulyás’ hotel during his visit, which were part of ongoing anti-Netanyahu protests in Tel Aviv. Some of these groups, such as the Movement for Quality Government, have received financial support from the US State Department.
Gulyás spoke positively about the relationship between Hungary and Israel, comparing Hungary’s position in the European Union to Israel’s situation in the Arab world. He emphasized Hungary’s democratic nature and written constitution and expressed support for Israel in international court proceedings brought by the Palestinian Authority.
Overall, Gergely Gulyás’ visit to Jerusalem aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties between Hungary and Israel, discuss key policy issues, and address concerns raised by the media and protestors.
