Lebanon: General Iannucci visits Italian troops amid security, cooperation, and support for the population

In a Lebanon marked by strong tensions and humanitarian challenges, the Italian Defense continues to operate through an integrated and coordinated commitment, structured around three main initiatives: UNIFIL, MIBIL, and MTC4L.

Between June 22 and 23, 2026, the Operational Commander of the Joint Forces Command (COVI), Army Corps General Giovanni Maria Iannucci, traveled to Lebanon — stopping in Beirut, Saadiyat, and Shama — to directly verify the national commitment in the country and meet with Italian personnel.

The visit opened in Beirut with a meeting between General Iannucci and the Italian Ambassador, Fabrizio Marcelli. The focus of the discussion was the security situation in the country, bilateral cooperation, and initiatives aimed at strengthening the capabilities of local security forces.

Consultation and training in Saadiyat

At the MTC4L Command headquarters in Saadiyat, General Iannucci met with the Committee Chairman, Major General Enrico Fontana, and the MIBIL Commander, Colonel Vittorio Gisonni. The activity of the Italian military in this context focuses on consultation, training, and education, with the strategic goal of making the Lebanese Armed Forces increasingly autonomous in managing national security.

The presence in Southern Lebanon

On the second day, the visit moved to the "Millevoi" base in Shama, headquarters of the UNIFIL Western Sector Command. Welcomed by Brigadier General Andrea Fraticelli, Commander of the Joint Task Force Lebanon – Sector West, General Iannucci also met with the Head of Mission and Force Commander of UNIFIL, Major General Diodato Abagnara.

The discussions allowed for a deeper understanding of the operational framework in Southern Lebanon, the prospects of the UN mission, the security of the peacekeepers, and the coordination with the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), in compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. Particularly highlighted was the Italian contingent's ability to adapt procedures and setups to an extremely fragile context, ensuring operational continuity and personnel protection.

Support for the civilian population

Beyond the military component, the Italian commitment maintains a strong humanitarian focus. Through coordination with local authorities, international organizations, and private donors, the Defense actively contributes to supporting the civilian population. Activities include the distribution of essential goods and direct assistance to the most vulnerable communities and internally displaced persons.

General Iannucci's mission reaffirmed the value of an Italian presence capable of combining security and cooperation, confirming itself as an essential pillar for the stability of a country crucial to the balance of the entire region.