Beirut: The Commander of UNIFIL’s Western Sector, Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, has held a significant meeting with the Mayor of Tura, Mr. Mohamad Haidar, marking their first encounter. The meeting aimed to establish a stronger connection between UNIFIL forces and the local municipality. Mayor Haidar conveyed the Tura community’s solidarity with UNIFIL troops, noting that residents returned to their homes following the ceasefire of the last conflict.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Brigadier General Mandolesi affirmed UNIFIL’s unwavering support for the Lebanese population and emphasized the importance of coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces to restore normalcy in Southern Lebanon. He also stressed the necessity of informing the community about UNIFIL’s mandate, adhering to Resolution 1701.

After the meeting, General Mandolesi proceeded to Tyre Port to participate in the inauguration ceremony of two shelters designed to benefit local fishermen. During his speech, he reiterated UNIFIL’s dedication to assisting the population and urged attendees to promote awareness of UNIFIL’s mission among the youth, while cautioning against sharing videos on social media that could negatively impact the image of Lebanon and UNIFIL.

The event was also graced by the presence of the Mayor of Tyre, Mr. Hassan Dabouk, who praised the Italian contingent of UNIFIL for their dedication and expressed gratitude to General Mandolesi for his efforts. Mr. Dabouk expressed optimism for continued and strengthened collaboration in both challenging and stable times.

The ceremony concluded with a lunch prepared on-site by the Western Sector’s chefs, featuring a field kitchen. Attendees enjoyed a meal of pasta and authentic Italian pizza.