ENTEBBE, Uganda — Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on Saturday unveiled a memorial monument dedicated to Lieutenant Colonel Yonatan "Yoni" Netanyahu at the historic Old Entebbe Terminal, describing the occasion as a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship, security cooperation, and diplomatic reconciliation between Uganda and Israel.

The ceremony was held at the site where Netanyahu, the commander of the Israeli special forces rescue mission during the 1976 Entebbe hostage rescue operation, was fatally wounded. Netanyahu was the elder brother of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Addressing dignitaries and guests, Gen Kainerugaba said it was a profound honour to commemorate a soldier whose courage has become synonymous with selfless service and military leadership.

"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," he said.

The Chief of Defence Forces emphasized that the monument transcends the memory of a single military operation, representing universal values that continue to inspire future generations.

"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 added that memorials play a critical role in preserving history and shaping 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."

Remembering the Victims

Gen Kainerugaba also paid tribute to the civilian hostages who lost their lives during the 1976 crisis, remembering Jean-Jacques Maimoni, Pasco Cohen, Ida Borochovitch, and Dora Bloch, whose deaths remain an enduring part of the Entebbe story.

"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."

Reflecting on Uganda's Past

In remarks acknowledging the complexity of the historic operation, the CDF also recognized the Ugandan soldiers who died during the confrontation while drawing a clear distinction between the Uganda of today and the regime under former dictator 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 which did not represent the Ugandan people in any way."

He said the events unfolded during one of Uganda's darkest chapters but stressed that the country has since transformed into a constitutional democracy committed to peace and international cooperation.

"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."

Renewed Uganda-Israel Partnership

Highlighting the evolution of bilateral relations, Gen Kainerugaba said Uganda and Israel have rebuilt a strong partnership based on mutual respect, practical cooperation, and shared strategic interests.

"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."

Looking ahead, he reaffirmed Uganda's commitment to expanding cooperation with Israel in security, innovation, and development while confronting common global threats.

"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."

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary, Mr Vincent Bagiire and Uganda Tourism Board chief, Juliana Kagwa were part of the guests at the event.

The unveiling of the Yoni Netanyahu monument marks another milestone in the steady strengthening of Uganda-Israel relations, with both countries increasingly collaborating in defence, technology, agriculture, and investment.