Paratrooper General Nicola MANDOLESI hands over responsibility of Sector West UNIFIL - Lebanon

The recent change of command at the helm of Sector West of UNIFIL in Lebanon, after six months of intense operational activity, marks another step in Italy's ongoing commitment to the security and stability of one of the most critical areas in the Middle East. The Italian Armed Forces operate in an extremely complex context, contributing to the peace mission with professionalism, dedication, and great commitment.

On Saturday evening, the first 200 soldiers of the "Pozzuolo del Friuli" Brigade returned to Ronchi dei Legionari airport after six months of intense operation in the heart of Lebanon, as part of the UNIFIL mission, the United Nations force deployed in the western sector of the country of cedars. The charter flight, departing from Beirut, brought back to Italy the first part of about 1000 soldiers who took part in the "Leonte" operation, an operation marked by a high-tension context due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah that has lasted for over a year and a half.

The commitment of the "Pozzuolo del Friuli" in Lebanon represented a crucial period for the stability of the region, during which Italian soldiers worked side by side with other international forces, ensuring the monitoring of the situation and maintaining peace in the most sensitive areas. The return of the soldiers was warmly welcomed by fellow soldiers, local authorities, and family members who embraced their loved ones after months of operations in such a delicate theater.

The end of this operational period also involved a significant change: the change of command of the multinational contingent of Sector West of UNIFIL, which counts over 3600 soldiers. Brigadier General David Colussi, of the "Taurinense" Brigade, takes over from General Nicola Mandolesi, of the "Pozzuolo del Friuli", former Commander of the 187th Paratroopers Regiment Folgore. This transfer of responsibility marks an important moment for the Italian Armed Forces, which continue to play a fundamental role in strengthening dialogue and international cooperation.

In a statement, General Mandolesi expressed his sincere gratitude to all the soldiers of the "Pozzuolo del Friuli" Brigade for the work done in the months spent in Lebanon, highlighting the importance of the mission for international security. At the same time, he wished the best to his successors of the "Taurinense" Brigade, confident that even in this new phase they will honor Italy and contribute significantly to peace and stability in the region.

The change of command of UNIFIL represents a concrete example of Italy's commitment to peace, order, and security in an area that continues to be marked by conflicts and tensions. The Italian forces will continue to be a point of reference for the international community, working in synergy with the United Nations and international partners to build lasting peace in southern Lebanon.