Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has declared that Uganda would support Israel militarily if its existence is threatened, as the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to widen with rising casualties and regional impact.
In a series of posts on X, Gen. Muhoozi said; “Any talk of destroying or defeating Israel will bring us into the war. On the side of Israel.”
He added that “if Israel needs help, it only need ask,” and emphasized that “Israel has a right to exist and attacks against her must stop.”
His remarks come amid an intensifying war between Israel and Iran that began in late February, drawing in multiple countries and armed groups across the region.
The conflict has already left more than 2,000 people dead across Iran, Israel and Lebanon, with significantly higher estimates when broader regional casualties are included.
Iran has borne the brunt of the violence, with over 1,200 deaths reported early in the war, alongside heavy civilian casualties from airstrikes.
Meanwhile, Israeli fatalities remain comparatively lower but continue to rise due to missile attacks.
Recent reports indicate that Iranian attacks have killed at least 19 people in Israel and over 60 others in neighboring countries, including incidents in the United Arab Emirates.
Beyond the core battlefronts, the war has spread to more than 10 countries, including Iraq, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar and Turkey, through missile strikes, drone attacks and proxy involvement.
The wider effects of the conflict are mounting. Millions have been displaced, particularly in Iran and Lebanon, while healthcare systems are under severe strain amid ongoing bombardments.
Global economic shocks are also emerging, with oil prices surging above $100 per barrel due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route.
The war has further disrupted air travel, trade routes and regional stability, raising fears of a broader international confrontation involving global powers.
Muhoozi’s statements have sparked debate about whether they reflect Uganda’s official foreign policy or his personal stance. Analysts note that while Uganda maintains historical ties with Israel, including military cooperation, official government policy on the current conflict has remained cautious.
The outspoken general, who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni, has increasingly drawn attention for his commentary on international affairs, often using social media to signal positions on global conflicts.
