New Zealand’s Middle East military observers stay positive in conflict zone
08 June 2026
Multinational Force and Observers (MFO)
The MFO ensures compliance with the commitments of the 1979 Treaty of Peace between Egypt and Israel. The mission makes a tangible contribution to maintaining peace and stability in an area of global strategic importance, and New Zealand’s presence demonstrates our enduring commitment to regional security.
We’ve deployed drivers, driver trainers, engineers, electricians and a command team to the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in the Sinai Peninsula, since joining this mission as a founding member in 1982.
Our personnel on this mission are primarily from the Army, but personnel from the Navy and Air Force have also served there. They work alongside other nations including the UK, USA, Australia, Canada, France, Colombia, Czech Republic, Fiji, Italy, Norway and Uruguay.
The New Zealand Defence Force is currently mandated to deploy up to 28 personnel.
