MFO - the Multinational Force & Observers

• Origins from the Camp David Accords: The MFO was established as a result of the 1978 Camp David Accords and the subsequent 1979 Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty, when the United Nations was unable to provide a peacekeeping force. • Independent Organization: Unlike most peacekeeping forces, the MFO is not a United Nations mission. It is an independent, international organization created specifically to monitor the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel. • First Deployment in 1982: The MFO began operations on April 25, 1982, coinciding with the final withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Sinai Peninsula. • Unique Orange Beret: MFO personnel are easily recognized by their distinctive orange berets and insignia, symbolizing their unique mission. • Multinational Participation: The MFO currently includes military personnel from 13 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Colombia, Fiji, France, Italy, New Zealand, Norway, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, the Czech Republic, and Japan (with non-uniformed staff). • Headquarters in Rome: Unusually for a Middle East-focused operation, the MFO’s headquarters are located in Rome, Italy, while its operational base is in the Sinai. • Tragic Helicopter Crash (2020): On November 12, 2020, an MFO helicopter crashed in the Sinai, killing eight peacekeepers from several countries, highlighting the ongoing dangers of the mission. • Primary Mission: The MFO supervises the implementation of security provisions of the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty, mainly by monitoring force levels and verifying demilitarized zones in the Sinai. • Bedouin Connection: The MFO employs local Sinai Bedouins as part of its Civilian Observer Unit, helping with local knowledge and community relations. • “Operation Bright Star” Support: The MFO often supports and coordinates with major multinational military exercises like Operation Bright Star, enhancing cooperation among participating nations.