Two U.S. service members are missing in Morocco following a multinational military exercise, triggering a large-scale search operation involving American and allied forces.
The incident occurred during African Lion 2026, an annual training exercise coordinated by United States Africa Command. Officials said the two service members went missing near the Cap Draa Training Area, located close to the coastal city of Tan-Tan.
According to AFRICOM, the disappearance was reported on May 2, prompting an immediate response. Search and rescue operations were launched using ground teams, aircraft, and maritime assets in coordination with Moroccan forces and other participating nations.
Two U.S. service members participating in African Lion 2026 were reported missing near the Cap Draa Training Area, near the city of Tan Tan, Morocco, May 2, 2026.https://t.co/7zxpKQRHfB
— U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) (@USAfricaCommand) May 3, 2026
The circumstances surrounding the disappearance remain unclear, and officials have not disclosed which branch of the U.S. military the missing personnel belong to. Authorities say the situation is under active investigation.
African Lion is one of the largest military exercises on the continent, involving more than 7,000 troops from roughly 30 countries. The drills span multiple locations, including Morocco, Ghana, Senegal, and Tunisia, and are designed to strengthen coordination and readiness among allied forces.
The exercise, first launched in 2004, typically includes participation from various U.S. military components such as the Marine Corps, Air Force, Army Reserve, and National Guard.
Officials emphasized that the priority remains locating the missing service members and supporting their families as the search continues.
The post U.S. Troops Missing After African Lion Exercise Prompts Search Effort appeared first on Real News Now.
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