MFO: Nine killed in Sinai helicopter crash

The Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Sinai Friday confirmed that one of its helicopters had crashed during a routine mission over Sharm el-Sheikh in South Sinai, killing 6 Americans, a French national and a Czech citizen. Another American survived and was evacuated to the Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba. Following the initial report of “technical failure” as the cause of the crash, the MFO announced it would conduct an investigation.

US President-Elect Joe Biden extended deep condolences to the peacekeepers’ loved ones, saying he joined all Americans in honoring their sacrifice. Condolences were extended earlier by the IDF, President Reuven Rivlin, Defense Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gaby Ashkenazi, who all lauded the MFO’s contribution to peace in the region.
The 1,100-strong force with personnel from 13 countries, including 400 Americans, was set up to oversee the terms of the peace treaty established between Egypt and Israel in 1979.