Gen. Muhoozi Unveils Yoni Netanyahu Memorial at Old Entebbe Terminal, Reaffirms Uganda-Israel Relations

What the report says

At Entebbe’s Old Terminal on Saturday, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, unveiled a memorial for Lt Col Yonatan “Yoni” Netanyahu, the Israeli commander killed during the 1976 Entebbe hostage rescue operation. Watchdog Uganda reported that the ceremony was framed by Gen. Kainerugaba as a gesture of reconciliation and a sign of the continuing relationship between Uganda and Israel.

According to the report, the memorial was placed at the site where Netanyahu died during the raid. Gen. Kainerugaba said the tribute was meant to honor not only Netanyahu’s military role but also the values he associated with courage, duty and service. He also said memorials help preserve history and can serve as a lesson for future generations.

The Ugandan military chief additionally remembered the civilian hostages who died in the 1976 crisis and acknowledged Ugandan soldiers who took part in the confrontation. He distinguished present-day Uganda from the government of Idi Amin, describing that era as one that did not reflect the Ugandan people. He said Uganda has since become a constitutional democracy that seeks peaceful international engagement.

Watchdog Uganda reported that Gen. Kainerugaba used the occasion to reaffirm ties with Israel, saying the two countries have long maintained relations based on mutual respect and practical cooperation. He said both sides should continue expanding cooperation in areas such as security, innovation and sustainable development.