Israeli Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu shared a deeply personal message Monday evening marking Israel’s Memorial Day, focusing on the memory of his brother, Yoni Netanyahu, the Sayeret Matkal commander who was killed during the 1976 Entebbe rescue operation.

In his post, Netanyahu described the profound connection he shared with his older brother, portraying him as a guiding force in his life. “Yoni was my extraordinary brother. My North Star, who helped me navigate my way through the twists and turns of life. He served as a role model and inspiration for me and my brother Iddo, and gave us support and advice at many crossroads. From a young age, he possessed a rare combination of inner calm, determination, and a clear sense of purpose. He always knew where he was going and what was required of him.”

He went on to say that he had long believed Yoni was destined for national leadership. “Throughout its life, the State of Israel has fought for its very existence. As long as Yoni was alive, I was certain that he would be there at the forefront, in leadership, in the place that would help secure its future.”

Netanyahu also revisited the devastating moment he learned of his brother’s death during the mission to rescue hostages from a hijacked Air France flight in Entebbe. “I felt that my life had come to an end. It was not only the loss of a beloved brother. It was the loss of an anchor. I was sure I would never recover.”

He explained how that loss ultimately shaped his own path, saying his brother’s legacy continued to influence generations and gave direction to his own life. “Over time, I realized that Yoni’s legacy did not end with his death. On the contrary. Generations of young people have read the book of his letters, and generations of fighters have drawn inspiration from his values. Yoni did not leave behind only a memory of heroism. He left us a path. Out of the depths of sorrow, a profound sense of mission grew within me. Yoni’s sacrifice pushed me forward into public service.”

Linking his personal loss to his responsibilities today, Netanyahu spoke about the weight of leadership during wartime. “As Prime Minister of Israel in these days of an existential war, when I send our soldiers into battle and our pilots toward Iran, I see each and every one of them as if they were my own brother. I remember my parents, and I think of their parents. I know what is at stake. I know the meaning of every decision. I protect our warriors, and they protect us.”

He concluded the message with a brief but emotional tribute: “I miss you, Yoni, my beloved brother. I miss you terribly.”

{Matzav.com}