Netanyahu Thanks Uganda for Statue Honoring Brother at Site of Death

KAMPALA — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed deep gratitude to the Ugandan government on Wednesday for erecting a statue commemorating his late brother, Yonatan Netanyahu, at the precise location where the former commando fell in action.

The monument was unveiled in Uganda on September 24, 2026, marking a significant diplomatic gesture between the two nations. The statue stands as a permanent tribute to Yonatan Netanyahu, who died during a military operation decades ago. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the dedication of the memorial at the site of his brother's death was a profound honor for his family and the State of Israel.

Yonatan Netanyahu, known by his call sign "Yoni," served as the commander of Sayeret Matkal, Israel's elite special forces unit. He is widely remembered in Israel as a national hero following his death during Operation Entebbe in 1976. The operation involved a daring rescue mission to free hostages held at Entebbe International Airport by hijackers who had diverted an Air France flight.

The Ugandan government's decision to place the statue directly at the site where Yonatan Netanyahu was killed underscores the historical significance of the location. Officials in Kampala described the project as a commitment to preserving the memory of the fallen soldier and acknowledging the bravery displayed during the rescue attempt. The site has long been a point of interest for historians and visitors tracing the events of the 1976 raid.

In his remarks, Prime Minister Netanyahu highlighted the enduring bond between Israel and Uganda, noting that the statue serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers in the line of duty. He thanked President Yoweri Museveni and the Ugandan leadership for their cooperation in identifying and securing the location for the memorial. The Prime Minister emphasized that the gesture would help future generations understand the cost of freedom and the importance of international solidarity.

The unveiling ceremony drew attendance from Israeli dignitaries, family members of Yonatan Netanyahu, and Ugandan officials. Speeches during the event focused on themes of courage, sacrifice, and the shared values between the two countries. The statue itself depicts Yonatan Netanyahu in military uniform, standing guard over the spot where he fell.

While the dedication has been widely celebrated as a moment of historical reconciliation and remembrance, questions remain regarding the long-term maintenance of the site and its accessibility to the public. Local officials have indicated that further discussions are underway to establish protocols for visitors and to ensure the monument remains preserved for years to come. Additionally, details regarding future commemorative events at the site have not yet been announced.

The erection of the statue marks a new chapter in the historical narrative surrounding Operation Entebbe, bringing physical recognition to a location that was previously known only through archival records and oral histories. As the two nations continue to strengthen their diplomatic ties, the memorial stands as a tangible symbol of respect for a soldier whose legacy continues to resonate across borders.