Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday congratulated President Trump and the U.S. military on the rescue of an American pilot shot down over Iran last week, invoking his own battlefield wounds and the death of his brother in the 1976 Entebbe rescue mission to underscore the moment’s significance.

“All Israelis rejoice in the incredible rescue of a brave American pilot by America’s dauntless warriors,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. “This proves that when free societies muster their courage and their resolve, they can confront seemingly insurmountable odds and overcome the forces of darkness and terror.”

“This reinforces the sacred principle: no one is left behind,” he said. “This is a shared value demonstrated time and time again in the history of both our countries.”

The Israeli prime minister drew on personal experience to contextualize the weight of the decision Trump made. Netanyahu was wounded during Operation Isotope, a 1972 hostage rescue at Tel Aviv’s Lod Airport. His older brother, Yoni Netanyahu, was killed leading the Israeli commando raid on Entebbe, Uganda, in 1976 — the only Israeli combatant killed in that operation.

“As a nation that repeatedly carried out daring rescue operations, and as someone who was wounded in such a mission and lost a brother in the Entebbe rescue, Israelis and I, we know what a bold decision you took,” Netanyahu said, addressing Trump directly.

He closed with an effusive tribute to the American president. “President Trump, Donald, my dear friend, once again your decisive leadership brought another great victory to America,” Netanyahu said. “I salute you. We all do.”

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)