Eight members of a peacekeeping force in Egypt’s Sinai peninsula have been killed in a helicopter crash, a statement by the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) has said.
The group said nine people were on board the aircraft when it came down during a routine mission near Sharm el-Sheikh.
Six Americans were killed, along with a French national and a Czech national, it added.
A seventh American survived and was medically evacuated.
In an In Memoriam shared on its website, the MFO said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss on November 12, 2020, of seven of our uniformed military colleagues from three countries who died in a helicopter crash during a routine mission.
“This included one Czech, one French, and five U.S. MFO members, and our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these soldiers at this difficult time.
“We wish the one U.S. MFO Member who survived the crash a speedy recovery.
“A full investigation of the cause of the crash, which appears to be mechanical in nature, has been launched.
“We greatly appreciate the cooperation and support of Egypt and Israel.
“The incident is a reminder of the sacrifices MFO Members make in support of the cause of peace.”