New archival trove reveals how Israel chose the Entebbe raid over negotiation

The rescue operation at Entebbe, which remains a cornerstone of Israeli military history as its 50th anniversary approaches, is being re-examined through a fresh lens. According to a report by the Times of Israel based on newly declassified archival documents, the Israeli government under Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin initially leaned toward a diplomatic resolution before committing to the military option.

The archives reveal the internal tension as the cabinet weighed the lives of the hostages against the immense risks of a long-range commando operation in Uganda. While the public image of the raid often emphasizes the swiftness of the decision, the documents show a more calculated and cautious progression. The government first explored various negotiation tracks to secure the release of the hijacked passengers. However, as the 'zero hour' approached and the feasibility of a military strike by Sayeret Matkal became clearer, the leadership shifted its stance.

This shift was not without significant debate. The documents highlight the gravity with which Rabin and his ministers viewed the potential for failure. The decision to launch the raid was ultimately made despite the high risks involved, marking a definitive moment in Israel's policy of refusing to yield to terrorist demands when a military alternative exists. As the 50th anniversary of the operation nears, these records provide a more nuanced understanding of how one of the most famous hostage rescues in history moved from a desperate hope to a concrete military plan.