Latest news with #UNIFILSectorWest


MTV Lebanon
30-06-2025
- Politics
- MTV Lebanon
UNIFIL Sector West: Tangible results, over 5.000 operations in support of the LAF
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.'


Al Bawaba
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Al Bawaba
UNIFIL calls on Israel to withdraw completely from Lebanon
ALBAWABA - The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), operating in southern Lebanon, called on the Israeli army to withdraw completely from the country's territory, warning of a deterioration in the situation in the region and a loss of stability. Also Read Three Israeli attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers in a single day During his visit to the town of Dahra in southern Lebanon, UNIFIL Sector West Commander Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi affirmed "UNIFIL's full support for the local population," emphasizing "strong and ongoing coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces, which continues to carry out mine clearance operations in the area, a prerequisite for the safe return of civilians." The situation is more stable than a few months ago, but it's still fragile. @UNIFIL_ peacekeepers remain committed to peace and stability in south Lebanon and continue supporting conditions for a political solution. — Aroldo Lázaro (@aroldo_lazaro) May 5, 2025 He added, "We continue to urge the Israeli army to fully withdraw from Lebanese territory, as its presence north of the Blue Line constitutes a violation of Resolution 1701." Mandolesi further mentioned, "At the same time, our coordination with the Lebanese army remains strong, and we continue to support the army in deploying its forces to help restore security and stability and work with the government to re-establish state authority in the south."


National News
29-04-2025
- Politics
- National News
UNIFIL Sector West Commander visits Islamic University of Tyre to strengthen ties with youth and promote educational cooperation
NNA - The Commander of UNIFIL Sector West, Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, paid an official visit to the Islamic University of Tyre, where he was warmly welcomed by the University President, Dr. Ghassan Jaber, along with the academic staff and a delegation of students. During the cordial meeting with the President, Brigadier General Mandolesi reaffirmed the continued presence of the Italian contingent in southern Lebanon, highlighting its closeness to the Lebanese people and, in particular, the attention given to youth – the true protagonists of every society's future. He also recognized the importance of the University of Tyre as a key educational institution in building a peaceful and stable future for the new generations. The University President expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the Italian contingent . He suggested concrete initiatives such as Italian language courses and meetings between students and UNIFIL personnel to promote dialogue and greater connection with the local community. Following the meeting, Brigadier General Mandolesi and the University President visited a classroom to engage with the students. During the session, the General outlined the role of UNIFIL and the projects being carried out in support of the local population, including medical assistance in villages and the restoration of water and electricity networks – essential services for improving living conditions in southern Lebanon. Afterward, around one hundred students enthusiastically participated in a workshop on effective communication, conducted by the UNIFIL Sector West psychologist. The initiative, which was warmly received by participants, provided practical tools to enhance the students' interpersonal and communication skills, contributing positively to their academic and personal development. The entire event served as a meaningful opportunity for dialogue and exchange, further strengthening the cultural bridge between Lebanon and Italy. The University President concluded by thanking UNIFIL Sector West for its ongoing efforts to promote stability in the region and for the tangible contributions of the Italian contingent in the fields of education and civil cooperation. Jaber said, the University , welcomed the Italian Commander Mendolese and the accompanying delegation on behalf of the University President in Lebanon, Dr. Hassan Lakkis, and the university professors and students. He said that it is a happy opportunity for us today to receive General Mendolese at the head of a delegation of UNIFIL officers, and to be present with us today in this symposium presented by the Italian contingent under his patronage and presence, in which the psychologist in the Italian contingent in UNIFIL, Dr. Linda Bernardi, lectures under the slogan 'To the students, this symposium contributes to unifying and strengthening the relationship between the Italian and Lebanese peoples through the Italian contingent in UNIFIL.' Jaber pointed out that we are a people who advocate for peace and love, but what we are exposed to in Lebanon and its south as a result of the Israeli aggression is not in self-defense, and we hope time after time that our conviction will increase that the Lebanese people love life, especially the people of the south who cling to their land and every grain of soil to live in peace on the land. Jaber said that the Islamic University in Tyre and UNIFIL will have a group of meetings and activities in the near future, as well as cooperation with the state Italian to reach academic, educational and cultural relations to benefit our students in their higher education. In conclusion, Jaber and Mendolisi exchanged memorial prayers.