Multinational Force and Observers
The Multinational Force and Observers is an independent (non-UN) peacekeeping mission, created as a result of the 1978 Camp David Accords and the 1979 Treaty of Peace. The MFO's expenses, less the contributions of Germany and Japan, are funded in equal parts by the Arab Republic of Egypt, the State of Israel and the United States of America. Since 1982, various nations have contributed military and civilian personnel to serve in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula as part of this highly successful organization. With the Director General and his staff at MFO Headquarters in Rome, Italy, and representatives in Cairo and Tel Aviv, the bulk of the Force and the Civilian Observer Unit operate in the Sinai Peninsula. North Camp, located at el Gorah, is the site of the Force Commander's Headquarters and provides facilities for the logistical and operational needs of the Force. The smaller South Camp, near Sharm el Sheikh on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, overlooks the Red Sea. From these main camps, the MFO mans a series of approximately 31 remote operational sites running the length of the penninsula.
Mission:
The mission of the MFO is, very simply, to OBSERVE,
VERIFY and REPORT. There are four essential tasks assigned to the MFO:
1. Operation of checkpoints, reconnaissance patrols and observation
posts along the international boundary and line B, and within Zone C.
2. Periodic verification of the implementation of the provisions of
the Annex to the Treaty of Peace, to be carried out not less than twice
a month unless othewise agreed to by the parties.
3. Additional verifications within 48 hours after receipt of a request from either party.
4. Ensure freedom of navigation through the Strait of Tiran.
Some information on this page are taken from "The Multinational
Force and Observers, Servants of Peace" published June, 1993 by the
Office of Personnel and Publications, Multinational Force and Observers,
C.P. 642, 00187 Rome, Italy.