2 US Soldiers Missing After Military Exercise in Southern Morocco

Two members of the United States Armed Forces have been reported missing in southern Morocco following their participation in the multinational African Lion military exercises, according to the US Africa Command (AFRICOM).

The soldiers, identified as US Army personnel, disappeared near the city of Tan-Tan after reportedly going on a recreational hike once the day’s training activities had concluded. A US defence official, speaking anonymously, said the pair were not engaged in any official exercise at the time of their disappearance.

AFRICOM confirmed that a joint search and rescue operation involving US, Moroccan, and other partner nations is currently underway. The effort includes helicopters, naval vessels, mountain rescue teams, and divers.

Moroccan authorities said the incident occurred शनिवार evening near the Cap Draa Training Area, a rugged region characterised by mountainous terrain and desert plains along the Atlantic coast. The soldiers were last seen near ocean cliffs and were reported missing after failing to return as scheduled.

Officials say the search remains active, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident is ongoing.

The African Lion exercise, one of the largest annual military drills on the continent, began in April and spans multiple countries, including Tunisia, Ghana, and Senegal. This year’s exercise involves more than 7,000 personnel from over 30 nations and is scheduled to conclude in early May.