Uganda unveils bronze monument to Yonatan Netanyahu, signaling stronger Israel ties
A bronze statue of Yonatan Netanyahu was installed at Entebbe Airport in Uganda, underscoring the country's renewed security partnership with Israel.
On August 1, Ugandan officials unveiled a bronze sculpture of Lieutenant Colonel Yonatan “Yoni” Netanyahu at the historic Entebbe Airport terminal, marking half a century since Israel’s Operation Thunderbolt rescued hostages and lost the commando leader. Senior members of the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces were present, framing the event as a testament to the enduring security partnership and diplomatic reconciliation between Uganda and Israel.
The ceremony highlights Uganda’s transformation from Idi Amin’s anti-Israeli regime to a close ally of the Jewish state. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has repeatedly called Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu a war criminal, was noted for his outspoken stance against Israel. Former Brooklyn assemblyman Dov Hikind praised the monument, calling Yoni a hero of the Jewish people. The unveiling reflects both historical memory and contemporary geopolitical alignment.
Why it matters
The statue signals Uganda’s shift to a close Israel ally, affecting regional diplomatic and security dynamics.
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