ENTEBBE, August 1, 2026 — Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba on Saturday unveiled a memorial monument in honour of Lt Col Yonatan “Yoni” Netanyahu at the historic Old Entebbe Terminal, describing the occasion as a symbol of reconciliation and the enduring partnership between Uganda and Israel.
Lt Col Netanyahu, the commander of the Israeli rescue force during the 1976 Entebbe hostage rescue operation, was killed during the mission. He was also the elder brother of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Speaking during the ceremony, Gen Kainerugaba said unveiling the monument at the site where Netanyahu lost his life was both historic and significant.
“It is a great honour 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 July 4, 1976, has become an enduring symbol of courage, duty and selfless service,” he said.
The CDF said the monument was not only a tribute to one soldier but also a reminder of the values of courage, sacrifice and service to humanity.
“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,” Gen Kainerugaba said.
He added that memorials preserve history and inspire future generations.
“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,” he said.
Gen. Kainerugaba also paid tribute to the civilian hostages who lost their lives during the 1976 crisis, including 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. Their memory remains an important part of this solemn history,” he said.
The CDF also acknowledged Ugandan soldiers who died during the confrontation, while distancing present-day Uganda from the regime of former president Idi Amin.
“We also recognize today the Ugandan soldiers who fought valiantly that day in what they believed was a justified cause. Of course, today we know that the government of Idi Amin, which they served, was a brutal dictatorship that did not represent the Ugandan people in any way,” he said.
He noted that Uganda has since transformed into a constitutional democracy committed to peace and constructive international 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,” Gen Kainerugaba said.
Reaffirming bilateral relations, the army chief said Uganda and Israel continue to enjoy strong ties built on mutual respect and practical cooperation.
“The friendship between Uganda and Israel extends well beyond the events of 1976. Our two countries have enjoyed good relations for a long time, founded on mutual respect and practical cooperation,” he said.
He said both countries should continue strengthening cooperation in addressing emerging global security challenges while advancing peace, innovation and sustainable development.
“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,” Gen Kainerugaba said.
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