Welcome to The Times of Israel's newest podcast series, Friday Focus. Each Friday, join diplomatic reporter Lazar Berman and host deputy editor Amanda Borschel-Dan for a deep dive into what's behind the news that spins the globe.

Berman is currently in Budapest covering Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's meetings with Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán.

Just before Berman packed his bags to fly on Israel's Wing of Zion plane, we discuss what Netanyahu is hoping to accomplish there, Israel’s relationship with Hungary in general, and Netanyahu's "bromances" with some of the leaders of what could be called “anti-liberal” democracies.

Berman starts by describing a typical trip alongside the prime minister and how a lot of his work gets done while waiting around.

We discuss the tricky diplomatic situation Israel finds itself in through its alliances with its eastern European friends, even as many countries in Europe are increasingly turning to the far right. While this podcast was recorded ahead of Hungary's announcement it was leaving the International Criminal Court -- which has a warrant out for Netanyahu's arrest -- the signs were plain that Budapest has the Israeli prime minister's back.

And finally, Borschel-Dan asks a burning question: Just how many packets of hot paprika is Berman bringing back for her?

This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves and the video was edited by Thomas Girsch. 

IMAGE: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, left, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, right, shake hands after a press statement at the Carmelite Monastery in the Buda Castle in Budapest, Hungary, April 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Denes Erdos)

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