Yoni Netanyahu honored in Porto ceremony as champion who changed world’s response to terrorism.
Portugal Ceremony Honors Heroism of Yonathan Netanyahu, 49 Years After Entebbe Rescue
In a moving international ceremony, the International Human Rights Observatory and B’nai B’rith Portugal honored Yonathan “Yoni” Netanyahu, the late commander of Israel’s elite Sayeret Matkal unit, who was killed in action while leading the 1976 Entebbe hostage rescue mission in Uganda.
Held nearly 49 years after the daring operation, the event brought together diplomats, community leaders, and civil society representatives from Israel, the U.S., Belgium, Spain, and Portugal, reflecting the broad and enduring impact of Netanyahu’s sacrifice on the global Jewish community and the fight against terrorism.
A commemorative certificate was presented to David Mileikowsky, cousin of Yoni Netanyahu and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on behalf of the family. The honor recognized Yoni’s role in changing the global response to terrorism and defending Jewish dignity across borders.
Speaking from Washington, Dan Mariaschin, CEO of B’nai B’rith International, recalled the emotional weight of the moment in 1976:
“Our jubilation that day, 49 years ago, was tempered by the news that Yoni Netanyahu had been killed. Most people didn’t know the name Netanyahu then. All we knew was that this young officer gave his life to save fellow Jews. ‘Acharai!’ (‘Follow me!’) — the IDF’s enduring motto — perfectly captured his bravery. Yoni renewed our pride as Jews, and deepened our love for Israel, the IDF, and the Zionist idea.”
Israel’s Ambassador to Portugal, Oren Rozenblat, echoed this sentiment:
“Operation Thunderbolt was not just a military mission. It was a message of resilience and moral clarity: that Israel will stand to protect Jews anywhere — in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or 4,000 kilometers away in Entebbe.”
Rabbi Menachem Margolin, Chairman of the European Jewish Association, framed the tribute in a contemporary context:
“Yoni Netanyahu was a symbol of a leader who sacrificed everything for the people of Israel. Honoring him today speaks to the courage needed from every Jew in Europe — to defend and sustain our communities, especially in challenging times.”
Bishop Dennis Nthumbi, African Director of the Israel Allies Foundation, invoked the shared faith that underpins Israel-Africa ties:
“Africa stands with Israel — not as a political bloc, but as a family restored. ‘Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; may those who love you be secure’ (Psalm 122:6).”
David Hatchwell Altaras, President of the Hispanic Jewish Foundation, spoke of the spiritual legacy Netanyahu left behind:
“The triumph of Israel against all odds is testimony of the divine among us. Our fight against injustice is not coincidental — it is core to our mission, generation after generation.”
In a poignant and poetic closing, David Mileikowsky reflected on his cousin’s legacy not just as a warrior, but as a thinker and writer:
“Some of us are first and foremost poets, and suddenly under unexpected circumstances, we must become warriors. But those fighters who are poets — they never truly die.”
Josh Reinstein, President of the Israel Allies Foundation, captured the broader message:
“The creation of new diplomatic partnerships with Africa and beyond, inspired by shared values, mirrors the legacy of Yonathan Netanyahu — one of courage, moral leadership, and unwavering defense of justice.”
The ceremony reaffirmed Yoni Netanyahu’s place in history as more than a military hero — as a timeless symbol of strength, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people.
