2 US Service Members Missing After Military Exercise in Morocco

Two United States service members have been reported missing in southwestern Morocco after participating in the African Lion multinational military exercise, officials said on Sunday.

According to United States Africa Command, the incident occurred on May 2 near the Cap Draa Training Area close to Tan Tan, a coastal region near the Atlantic Ocean. Authorities have not yet disclosed the circumstances surrounding the disappearance.

A joint search and rescue mission has been launched involving the United States military, Moroccan authorities, and other nations participating in the exercise. Officials said the operation remains active, while an investigation into the incident is also underway.

African Lion is one of the largest annual military exercises led by the United States on the African continent. First launched in 2004, the exercise focuses on improving coordination, readiness, and regional security cooperation among participating forces.

This year’s drills began in April and are being conducted across four countries — Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana, and Senegal. The exercise is scheduled to conclude in early May.

Military officials have said the programme helps strengthen defence partnerships and prepares participating forces to respond to future regional and global crises.

No further details about the missing personnel have been released so far.