Famous Jews in History: The Entebbe Heroes

In June 1976, terrorists hijacked an Air France jet and forced it to Entebbe, Uganda. Once on the ground, the hostages were divided with Jews and Israelis singled out and kept apart. After a week of fear, Israeli commandos launched a daring overnight rescue, flying thousands of kilometres to storm the terminal and free 102 captives.

The mission became legendary for its precision and courage. Commander Yonatan Netanyahu - the only Israeli soldier killed, and the older brother of Benjamin Netanyahu - is remembered as a hero who gave his life so others could live. His sacrifice reminds us that Jewish courage and solidarity can turn despair into hope.

Learn more: JTA - Why the Entebbe rescue almost didn’t happen — and how Israel is still wrestling with the same tough questions 48 years later