The Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has presided over the unveiling of a memorial monument dedicated to Lieutenant Colonel Yonatan "Yoni" Netanyahu at the historic Old Entebbe Terminal, framing the occasion as a testament to the enduring security partnership, mutual trust, and diplomatic reconciliation between Uganda and Israel. The fallen hero was the older brother of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Speaking at the event, Gen Kainerugaba highlighted the historic significance of honoring the fallen Israeli commando on the very grounds where he lost his life during the 1976 hostage rescue operation.
"It is a great honor and privilege to join you at this historic site as we unveil this monument to Lieutenant Colonel Yonatan 'Yoni' Netanyahu, the courageous commander of the Israeli rescue force whose leadership and ultimate sacrifice during the Entebbe raid of 4th July 1976 has become an enduring symbol of courage, duty, and selfless service," Gen Kainerugaba said.
The Ugandan CDF stressed that the monument represents a shared commitment to universal military and humanitarian values rather than simply reflecting on past tragedy.
"Today, this memorial stands not only in remembrance of a distinguished soldier, but also as a tribute to the enduring values he embodied: courage in the face of danger, unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives, and steadfast devotion to duty," he declared.
"Monuments are more than stone and bronze. They preserve memory, teach history, and inspire future generations. This monument, therefore, carries significance far beyond commemorating one brave individual."
In his address, Gen Kainerugaba also paid tribute to the civilian hostages who lost their lives during the July 1976 crisis, naming Jean-Jacques Maimoni, Pasco Cohen, Ida Borochovitch, and Dora Bloch.
"As we gather here, we also respectfully remember the innocent hostages who lost their lives during those tragic events," Gen Kainerugaba said. "Their memory remains an important part of this solemn history."
In an assessment of the 1976 confrontation, Gen Kainerugaba acknowledged the Ugandan soldiers who died in the battle while making a clear distinction between today's democratic state and the regime of dictator Idi Amin.
"We also recognize today the Ugandan soldiers who fought valiantly that day in what they believed was a justified cause," Gen Kainerugaba noted. "Of course, today we know that the government of Idi Amin, which they served, was a brutal dictatorship which did not represent the Ugandan people in any way."
He emphasized that Uganda has since evolved into a constitutional democracy dedicated to international cooperation and peaceful engagement.
"The events that unfolded here in July 1976 remain one of the most significant episodes in modern history. They occurred during one of the darkest periods in our country's history. Today, however, Uganda is a constitutional democracy committed to peaceful coexistence and constructive engagement with the international community," Kainerugaba added.
Pointing to historical ties, Gen Kainerugaba reaffirmed Uganda's commitment to deepening strategic and security alignment with Israel.
"The friendship between Uganda and Israel extends well beyond the events of 1976. Our two countries have enjoyed good relations for a long time now, founded on mutual respect and practical cooperation," Gen Kainerugaba said.
Outlining the path forward, Kainerugaba urged both nations to continue standing together against global security threats and violent extremism.
"As we look to the future, we remain committed to deepening our cooperation across all areas of mutual interest while working together to advance peace, security, innovation, and sustainable development," he concluded.
Speaking on behalf of the Israeli delegation, Mr. Barack Orland thanked General Kainerugaba, recalling the moment the General first declared that the UPDF would stand with Israel. To Orland, that gesture mirrored the biblical story of the Kenites, who chose to support the Israelites in the desert out of pure loyalty and goodwill.
Mr. Orland stressed that the relationship between Uganda and Israel holds that same spark, noting that the new monument is far more than stone—it stands as a testament to two nations standing shoulder-to-shoulder for the sake of future generations. He thanked General Kainerugaba for making the decisive call to place the memorial at the site.
Quoting President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Mr. Orland noted that such sacrifices turn painful historical events into a lasting bond between the Holy Land and the Pearl of Africa.
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Director General of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), Ms. Olive Birungi Lumonya, hailed the CDF for taking the initiative to make the monument a reality.
She noted that the unveiling of the monument dedicated to the late Lt. Col. Yonatan Netanyahu stands as a powerful testament to courage, sacrifice, and enduring international friendship.
"We extend our sincere appreciation to the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his leadership, vision, and steadfast commitment to identifying the ideal location for this monument and bringing this significant project to fruition," Ms. Lumonya said.
The function was also attended by the UPDF Airforce Commander Lt Gen Charles Okidi, directors from Civil, aviation authority, Ugandan Tourism Board and other senior government and military leaders.
