The Italian Contingent Command and the Western Sector Command of the UNIFIL Mission (Operation “Leonte”) in Lebanon have launched a significant solidarity initiative aimed at supporting Italian military personnel engaged in the United Nations peacekeeping mission, as well as local populations receiving assistance through humanitarian activities.
The contingent is currently under the command of the “Sassari” Brigade, which has taken over from the “Pozzuolo del Friuli” Brigade, in an operational environment of particular sensitivity and strategic importance for the stability of the Middle East. In view of the conclusion of the UNIFIL mission’s mandate, scheduled by the United Nations for 2027, support for the men and women working daily in Lebanon in the interests of peace, security and international cooperation takes on even greater significance.
At the initiative of Colonel Leandro Corina, Commander of the “Serenissima” Amphibious Regiment, and with the collaboration of the Triveneto Delegation of our Order, through its Deputy Delegate, Dr Lucio Pasqualetto, a collection of goods and supplies for the Italian contingent deployed in Lebanon was organised.
Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Masseria, Head of Operations, was appointed to coordinate the collection activities and manage the logistics of the donated materials, with the “Matter” Barracks in Mestre serving as the collection point.
On 20 July, the first container destined for Lebanon was sealed and prepared for transport by sea as part of the humanitarian initiative. Those attending the ceremony included Deputy Delegate Dr Lucio Pasqualetto, Lieutenant Colonel Enrico Masseria, Prince Giovanni Alliata di Montereale, representing Venice, and Roberto Teso, representing the Lido of Venice on behalf of the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of Saint George.
Any further donations received in the coming weeks will subsequently be dispatched by cargo transport, in compliance with the dimensional and operational restrictions governing the shipping methods adopted.
The initiative, addressed to businesses, associations, organisations and private citizens, received a significant response thanks to the generous participation of numerous local organisations. The donated materials will be intended both for military personnel serving with the contingent and for local communities benefiting from the support programmes promoted by the mission.
Among the items collected are three electric generators intended to ensure power supplies for schools and healthcare facilities, numerous complete kitchen sets including pots, pans, cutlery and utensils, clothing for men, women and children, as well as two inflatable boats equipped with the corresponding cylinders for underwater activities.
This initiative represents a tangible gesture of solidarity and support for those serving far from their homeland in complex environments of considerable strategic importance. Supporting military personnel deployed abroad means recognising the fundamental contribution made by the Italian Armed Forces to peacekeeping operations, assistance to local populations and international cooperation.
The participation of businesses, associations and civil society also provides an important example of cooperation between institutions, the productive sector and local communities, demonstrating how every contribution, however small, can be transformed into practical assistance for deployed personnel and the populations they support.
The organisers wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the companies, associations and private citizens who have supported this initiative with generosity and a strong sense of responsibility, making a tangible contribution to supporting the Italian contingent of the UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon and the humanitarian activities carried out for the benefit of local communities.
