Uganda could enter the conflict against Iran if Israel faces danger or defeat, said Muhoozi Kainerugaba, head of the country’s People’s Defence Forces.
He also called for an end to the Middle East war, stating:
«The world is tired of it. But any talk of destroying or defeating Israel will bring us into the war. On the side of Israel.»
Kainerugaba also expressed gratitude to Israeli authorities for supporting Uganda during the 1980s and 1990s. His remarks sparked debate online, with some users arguing that national interests should come first.
Previously, Muhoozi Kainerugaba proposed erecting a monument to Jonathan Netanyahu, the late brother of the current Israeli prime minister, who died in Uganda in 1976 during a hostage rescue operation against the Palestine Liberation Front and German left-wing radicals.
According to Global Firepower 2026, Uganda ranks 107th among the world’s strongest militaries, with a defence budget of $1.5 bn. The country has 45,000 active troops and 10,000 in paramilitary units. Its air force operates 51 aircraft, 26 of which are combat-ready. Ground forces are equipped with over 250 tanks, 9,700 vehicles, six self-propelled artillery units and 12 multiple launch rocket systems.
Israel ranks 15th and Iran 16th in the Global Firepower index, while the United States, Russia and China are recognised as the world’s strongest militaries.
From economics and politics to business, technology and culture, Kursiv Uzbekistan brings you key news and in-depth analysis from Uzbekistan and around the world. To stay up to date and get the latest stories in real time, follow our Telegram channel.
