50 years after Operation Entebbe, Israel honors fallen commander Yoni Netanyahu

On July 4, 2026, Israel marked the 50th anniversary of Operation Entebbe, a pivotal moment in the nation’s history that showcased its resolve and capability in confronting terrorism. The operation, officially known as Operation Thunderbolt, took place in 1976 when Israeli commandos carried out a daring rescue mission in Uganda to free Israeli and Jewish hostages taken during the hijacking of an Air France flight. The mission resulted in the successful liberation of over 100 hostages, solidifying Israel’s reputation as a formidable force against terrorism. However, the operation also claimed the life of Lt.-Col. Yonatan "Yoni" Netanyahu, the brother of then-Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who paid tribute to him at a memorial service held at Mount Herzl cemetery two weeks prior.

Yoni Netanyahu, born on March 13, 1946, in New York, lived a life defined by dedication to Israel. His journey began in the United States, where he spent part of his youth, before returning to Israel to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). He joined the Paratroopers Brigade and participated in the Six-Day War, earning recognition for his bravery during the conflict. After serving in the military, Yoni pursued academic studies at Harvard University and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Upon completing his education, he rejoined the IDF and eventually became a leader within the elite Sayeret Matkal unit, Israel’s special forces. During the Yom Kippur War, Yoni demonstrated exceptional leadership and was honored with the Medal of Distinguished Service for rescuing a wounded officer under fire.

At the memorial service, Netanyahu spoke about the qualities that made Yoni a remarkable figure. He highlighted Yoni’s humanity, moral clarity, courage, and unwavering commitment to the state and its people. Netanyahu recounted how Yoni believed in the necessity of struggle and sacrifice for Israel’s survival. In a poignant quote from Yoni’s letters, Netanyahu emphasized the importance of establishing a lasting homeland for the Jewish people, stating that he preferred living in a state of ongoing conflict rather than being part of a nomadic existence.

The operation that claimed Yoni’s life was a testament to Israel’s ability to act decisively in times of crisis. As the lead commander of the rescue team, Yoni was killed during the final stages of the mission when he engaged Ugandan soldiers and was shot in return. His death underscored the risks inherent in such operations but also reinforced the sacrifices made for national security.

While the official narrative celebrates the success of Operation Entebbe, some accounts highlight the human toll of the mission. A documentary titled *Live or Die in Entebbe*, directed by Eyal Boers, explores the tragic stories of those affected by the hijacking and subsequent rescue. It focuses on the experiences of the four passengers who did not survive the operation, offering a more nuanced perspective on the event. This documentary, available to members of The Times of Israel Community, aims to shed light on the emotional and psychological impact of the operation on the families involved.

As Israel commemorates the 50th anniversary of Operation Entebbe, the legacy of Yoni Netanyahu continues to inspire discussions about national identity, resilience, and the enduring struggle against terrorism. Netanyahu’s reflections at the memorial service underscore the significance of the event in shaping Israel’s international standing and reinforcing its commitment to self-defense. The commemoration serves as both a tribute to Yoni and a reaffirmation of the values that define the nation.