Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and son of Yoweri Museveni, has drawn widespread attention after openly expressing support for Israel during the intensifying Middle East tensions, even hinting that Uganda could consider military action against Iran if threats toward Israel continue.
Through a series of posts on X on Thursday, Kainerugaba voiced strong backing for Israel amid the ongoing conflict.
Although framed as personal views, his statements are frequently seen as carrying political weight due to his senior military role and close ties to Uganda’s presidency.
Backing Israel while urging an end to hostilities, Kainerugaba stated that Israel’s right to exist must be respected and attacks against it should cease. He also called for an immediate halt to the conflict, noting that global fatigue over the war is growing.
He went on to caution that any attempt to defeat Israel could draw Uganda into the conflict, firmly declaring his stance in support of the country.
According to The Jerusalem Post, a now-deleted post suggested that Uganda’s military, the Uganda People’s Defence Force, might join the war on Israel’s side if the situation escalates.
In the same message, he claimed Uganda’s forces could capture Tehran within 72 hours without bombing, while criticizing the idea of attacking populations perceived as supportive.
Kainerugaba’s comments come at a time when relations between Uganda and Israel appear to be strengthening.
Recently, he revealed plans to erect a statue of Lt.-Col. Yonatan “Yoni” Netanyahu brother of Benjamin Netanyahu at Entebbe International Airport.
Yoni Netanyahu died during Operation Thunderbolt, a mission that successfully freed 102 hostages from a hijacked Air France aircraft at Entebbe Airport.
Kainerugaba described the proposed monument as a reflection of the enduring ties between Uganda and Israel.
While no official confirmation has been issued by the government, he emphasized the symbolic importance of the tribute, linking it to Israel’s support for Uganda in the years following independence.
The 1976 Entebbe hijacking remains a defining moment in Uganda-Israel relations.
The Israeli operation, led by Yonatan Netanyahu, resulted in the rescue of hostages held by militants at the airport.
The mission involved a bold commando raid that ended with Netanyahu’s death and the elimination of all seven hijackers.
This historic event has continued to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations, with Kainerugaba highlighting Israel’s role in Uganda’s development.
He noted that Israel supported Uganda during earlier decades of nation-building, adding that such history justifies standing by Israel today as the country’s economy has grown significantly.