UNIFIL Sector West: Tangible results, over 5.000 operations in support of the LAF

MTV Lebanon

3 days ago

The Western Sector of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL SW), under the command of Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, has steadfastly pursued its mission to support the security and stability of local communities along the Blue Line. Since the start of its operational mandate in February 2025, UNIFIL SW has strengthened its posture in the area of responsibility through the operations conducted by the Italian, Ghanaian, Irish, Korean, and Malaysian contingents, in close coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF).
Operating in a complex, unstable, and highly dynamic environment, Sector West has carried out over 5.700 operations in support of the LAF, doubling the pace of activity compared to the pre-conflict period. This support included the redeployment of LAF units to more than 120 permanent positions and the detection of over 250 illegal weapons and ammunition caches, which were promptly reported to the LAF.
UNIFIL Sector West personnel continue to provide vital support to local communities, also by facilitating humanitarian missions. In particular, the following activities were carried out: medical assistance to around 2.800 civilian patients in populated areas within the area of responsibility; more than 100 Key Leader Engagements with local authorities, conducted in person by the UNIFIL Sector West Commander; over 400 kilometers of road technical reconnaissance by combat engineering units within the operational area; around 100 roadblocks removed to ensure freedom of movement; approximately 70 unexploded ordnance (UXO) findings; 77 discoveries of unsecured weapons and ammunition and 56 tunnel detections.
In parallel, the Sector's commitment to civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) has yielded significant results, with over 1.600 activities in the medical and educational fields, as well as donation projects, carried out in full synergy between the UNIFIL Sector West HQ and its subordinate battalions.
Statement by Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, UNIFIL Sector West Commander:
'The results achieved in recent months are the outcome of constant dedication, shared with multinational contingents and in coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces. Every activity, whether operational or humanitarian, fulfills our mandate: to support security and stability along the Blue Line and to provide vital assistance to local communities, including by facilitating humanitarian missions. Commitment is an act, not a word.'