Operation Thunderbolt: Entebbe's Hostage Rescue Mission

A Thrilling Tale of Courage and Daring

In the annals of military history, few operations have captured the imagination and stirred the emotions like Operation Thunderbolt, the daring Israeli raid to rescue hostages held by Palestinian terrorists at Entebbe Airport in Uganda in 1976. This meticulously researched and gripping account by William Stevenson and Uri Dan brings to life the extraordinary events of that fateful day, offering a riveting blend of historical narrative, personal testimonies, and expert analysis.

A Hostage Crisis that Shocked the World

On June 27, 1976, a group of Palestinian and German terrorists hijacked an Air France flight en route from Tel Aviv to Paris, diverting it to Entebbe Airport in Uganda. The hijackers, led by the notorious Wadie Haddad, demanded the release of dozens of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel and threatened to kill the hostages if their demands were not met.

The crisis sent shockwaves around the world, capturing the attention of governments and media outlets everywhere. With the lives of over 100 hostages hanging in the balance, the Israeli government faced an agonizing dilemma: negotiate with the terrorists or take military action.

A Daring Plan Takes Shape

Behind the scenes, Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and his cabinet grappled with the complexities of the situation. They knew that any attempt to rescue the hostages would be fraught with danger and could have far-reaching consequences. Yet, they were determined to act, driven by a sense of national pride and a commitment to protecting their citizens.

After carefully weighing their options, the Israelis devised a daring plan that involved sending a team of elite commandos on a long-range mission to Uganda. The operation, code-named Thunderbolt, was meticulously planned and executed with surgical precision.

A Race Against Time

On July 3, 1976, four Israeli transport planes carrying over 100 commandos took off from Israel, embarking on a treacherous journey to Entebbe. Flying low to avoid detection, the planes navigated through hostile airspace, facing the constant threat of being intercepted by Ugandan fighter jets.

As the commandos parachuted into Ugandan territory, they faced a formidable challenge: the airport was heavily guarded by Ugandan soldiers and Palestinian guerrillas. Undeterred, the commandos stormed the airport, engaging in fierce gun battles with the enemy forces.

A Triumph of Courage and Ingenuity

Despite the overwhelming odds, the Israeli commandos fought their way through the airport, successfully rescuing the hostages and neutralizing the terrorists. In a stunning display of courage and ingenuity, they managed to evacuate the hostages and return to Israel without losing a single soldier.

The successful execution of Operation Thunderbolt was a major turning point in the history of counter-terrorism. It demonstrated the remarkable capabilities of the Israeli military and sent a clear message to terrorist organizations that Israel would not tolerate attacks on its citizens.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Operation Thunderbolt continues to be celebrated as a symbol of courage, determination, and the triumph of good over evil. The book, "Operation Thunderbolt: Entebbe's Hostage Rescue Mission," provides a comprehensive and captivating account of this extraordinary event, offering readers a chance to relive the drama and heroism of that fateful day.

With its vivid storytelling, meticulous research, and exclusive interviews with key participants, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, counter-terrorism, and the indomitable spirit of the human will.

Don't Miss This Thrilling Read!

"Operation Thunderbolt: Entebbe's Hostage Rescue Mission" is a gripping narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Order your copy today and immerse yourself in this unforgettable story of courage, determination, and the triumph of the human spirit.