Rare Personal Interview

Netanyahu on Loss of Brother Yoni

In podcast interview, Israeli prime minister shares grief over brother killed in 1976 Entebbe raid, tells bereaved father "the longing has no end"

Gila Isaacson, Srugim

AUG 13, 2026 15:00

2 min read

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, known for maintaining a reserved public demeanor, made unusually personal remarks during an appearance on Avi Harush's podcast on Galatz (Israel Defense Forces Radio). Netanyahu spoke openly about the enduring pain of losing his brother Yoni Netanyahu, who was killed during the 1976 Entebbe rescue operation in Uganda.

The emotional exchange came after Harosh, the interviewer, shared that he has been fighting for two years to use his late son Rif's preserved sperm to have a grandchild. Rif Harush fell in Gaza. When Harosh asked the prime minister whether he would pursue the same path if given the opportunity, Netanyahu said he would.

Netanyahu pressed for details about the legal obstacles. Harush explained that while the sperm exists, he is prevented from using it because legislation has stalled in the Ministerial Committee for Legislation. Netanyahu asked for specifics and wrote a note to himself, promising to address the matter.

"I'll tell you why this resonates with me," Netanyahu said. "I walk down the street and see someone in the distance who looks like Yoni, and you want to preserve as much of the living as possible. I understand you perfectly. The sadness always stays with me, the longing has no end."

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