Hungary’s upcoming parliamentary election is not a distant European affair. For Israelis and Jews around the world, it raises a difficult question: when a government advances Israel’s interests while weakening democratic norms, what should take priority? The uneasy reality is that Israel has been quick to embrace Viktor Orbán and slower to reflect on the broader implications of that choice.

After 16 years in power, Orbán now faces his most serious political challenge. His influence extends beyond Hungary. He has helped shape a governing approach that pairs electoral legitimacy with a gradual erosion of institutional checks. Media ownership has become more concentrated, the Central European University relocated under sustained political pressure, and judicial reforms have shifted the balance between courts and the executive. Civil society groups have also encountered mounting administrative constraints. These developments are not unique to Hungary, but Orbán has refined them in ways that have drawn attention across Europe.

For Israel, he has been a valuable partner. His government has consistently supported Israel in European forums, at times breaking with the broader European consensus. Since October 7, that backing has become even more visible. For Netanyahu’s government, the logic is straightforward: dependable allies are scarce and should be preserved.

That logic is understandable, but it is not sufficient on its own.

Hungary is home to around 50,000........

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