Historic tribute marks Israel–Uganda alliance and immortalizes hero of legendary anti-terror operation.
Uganda is set to construct a statue honoring Lt.-Col. Yonatan Netanyahu at Entebbe International Airport, commemorating the Israeli commander who was killed during the historic 1976 hostage rescue mission widely known as Operation Entebbe. The announcement was made by Uganda’s Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who stated that the monument would stand at the exact location where Yoni Netanyahu fell while leading the daring operation to free Jewish hostages.
Kainerugaba, the son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, described the proposed statue as a symbol of the strengthening relationship between Uganda and Israel. Although no official unveiling date has yet been confirmed, the declaration signals a significant diplomatic and historical gesture, underscoring mutual respect between the two nations decades after one of the most dramatic counterterror operations in modern history.
Lt.-Col. Yoni Netanyahu, the elder brother of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, was the only Israeli soldier killed during the mission, which successfully rescued over 100 Jewish and Israeli hostages after an Air France flight was hijacked and diverted to Uganda. The operation remains a defining moment in Israel’s national narrative, symbolizing resolve against terrorism and a commitment to protecting Jewish lives anywhere in the world.
Israeli leaders have repeatedly commemorated the anniversary of the Entebbe raid, including Prime Minister Netanyahu’s 2016 visit to the airport, where he honored his brother’s sacrifice and highlighted the enduring bond between the two countries. In 2020, Netanyahu again traveled to Uganda for high-level meetings with President Museveni, during which discussions included the possibility of Uganda opening an embassy in Jerusalem, reflecting expanding diplomatic cooperation.
The planned statue at Entebbe will not only memorialize Yoni Netanyahu’s bravery but also serve as a lasting testament to a mission that reshaped global counterterror strategy and cemented Israel’s reputation for decisive action in defense of its citizens.
