Tensions rise as Hungary postpones a pivotal parliamentary session on Sweden's NATO application.

The meeting, initially scheduled for Monday, was called off after the ruling Fidesz party and its ally KDNP announced their absence until a "confidence-building meeting" with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson takes place.

Kersson, who received a formal invitation from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to discuss the application, declined the offer, stating he would visit Hungary only after the ratification process is complete.

The U.

S. Ambassador to Hungary has openly urged Orbán to honor his promise to ratify Sweden's application "at the first possible opportunity," with the now-cancelled Monday session being such an opportunity.

The Hungarian opposition criticizes the delay, warning that Hungary will pay a high price for Orbán's actions, which continue to isolate the country within the transatlantic community.

The delay comes amidst heightened instability in the Middle East, referenced by U.

S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and an attack on a U.

S. military base in Jordan.