Shama - The "Pozzuolo del Friuli" Brigade has assumed command of UNIFIL’s Sector West, taking over from the "Sassari" Brigade as part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in southern Lebanon. The handover ceremony between Brigadier General Andrea Fraticelli and his counterpart, Brigadier General Andrea Bertazzo, took place at the "Millevoi" base in Shama. The event was presided over by UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Diodato Abagnara, alongside the Italian Ambassador to Lebanon, Fabrizio Marcelli, and the Commander of the Italian Joint Operations HQ (COVI), Lieutenant General Giovanni Maria Iannucci. The "Sassari" Brigade wraps up a tour marked by intensifying hostilities in southern Lebanon. Over recent months, the Italian contingent maintained its presence on the ground and supported the local population, adapting protective measures and operational posture to evolving conditions. Italian peacekeepers continued monitoring the cessation of hostilities, coordinated closely with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), and sustained ongoing dialogue with local authorities and communities. These efforts were complemented by civil-military cooperation initiatives, assistance to vulnerable groups, and direct support for local healthcare, education, and municipal infrastructure. (9colonne)