UNIFIL’s Sector West Command teamed up with the Lebanese Red Cross (LRC) last week in a blood donation campaign in which more than 150 UNIFIL peacekeepers participated.
Over the course of three days from 12 to 14 March, a total of 151 UNIFIL peacekeepers from Italy, Poland, Ireland, France and Lithuania donated blood, which is essential for saving lives.
This initiative is especially important during the holy month of Ramadan, a time of reflection and sharing for the Muslim communities worldwide. This gesture of UNIFIL peacekeepers holds significance as those fasting during this month don’t donate blood, leading to low blood bank reserves.
UNIFIL Sector West Commander, Brigadier General Nicola Mandolesi, emphasized that by participating in the blood donation campaign, UNIFIL peacekeepers contributed to rekindling hope among those in need. He said the initiative also “reaffirmed UNIFIL’s ongoing commitment to supporting the people of southern Lebanon.”
The shortage of blood is particularly acute currently, especially following a prolonged conflict that heavily impacted south Lebanon. UNIFIL Sector West Command is planning another blood donation campaign in about three months.
Ali Saad, who’s the LRC liaison for coordination with UNIFIL, said 144 pints of blood was collected, calling the UNIFIL initiative a “noble thing.”
“This helps a lot of people affected by the last conflict,” said Mr. Saad. “Those undergoing surgical operations as well as new patients will benefit.”
Noor Mahdi of the Tyre Red Cross said the donated blood will be distributed among 13 LRC centres across Lebanon.