Israel's President Herzog Visits Budapest, Discusses Ties and Antisemitism

President of Israel Isaac Herzog arrived in Budapest on Monday for an official visit to Hungary, where he was welcomed by Hungarian President Áder János at the Presidential Palace. The two leaders held a private meeting followed by an expanded bilateral session with their professional teams. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding economic and political cooperation, reinforcing the alliance between Israel and Hungary, and a joint, uncompromising fight against antisemitism in Europe and globally.

During his visit, President Herzog is scheduled to meet with Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar at the Hungarian Parliament. He will also attend the international conference of the "Voice of the People" initiative and conclude his visit by meeting with leaders of the Hungarian Jewish community. Herzog thanked President Áder János for the warm reception and congratulated him on assuming his role, acknowledging his extensive legal career, including service as a Supreme Court judge and at the European Court of Human Rights.

Herzog noted the upcoming 70th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution, drawing parallels to Israel's own struggle for freedom and sovereignty. He emphasized that independence and freedom come at a heavy price, a reality the Israeli society understands daily. The President highlighted the security threat posed by Iran and its proxies, which endanger not only Israel but the entire world, underscoring the need for a strong alliance among freedom-loving nations. He praised Hungary as a true friend of Israel and for its balancing role in Europe, also congratulating Prime Minister Magyar on his recent election victory.

President Herzog also reflected on Hungary's rich history of Jewish communities and their contributions, alongside the painful memory of the Holocaust. He expressed gratitude for Hungary's zero-tolerance policy against antisemitism and its commitment to protecting the Jewish community. Recalling his father's state visit to Budapest 35 years prior, he expressed pride that the hope for friendship between the nations has become a reality.

President Áder János, in turn, affirmed Hungary as a safe haven for Jews and visitors, reiterating the country's zero-tolerance policy towards antisemitism and its commitment to the security of its large Jewish community. He stated that there are no outstanding bilateral issues between the countries, describing relations as stable and warm. Regarding the Middle East, Áder János called for adherence to international humanitarian law, ensuring aid delivery, and enabling Israelis and Palestinians to live in security and peace. He concluded by noting the historical parallels between the Hungarian Revolution and the Suez Crisis 70 years ago, stressing the importance of learning from the past for a secure future.