Update on Missing American Soldiers in Morocco
In a concerning development during the ongoing international military exercise known as African Lion 2026, two American soldiers have been reported missing in southern Morocco. This incident was announced on Sunday by both the Moroccan military and the United States Africa Command (Africom). The soldiers were last seen on Saturday evening, May 2, 2026, around 9 PM near a cliff at Cap Draa in the Tan-Tan region, prompting immediate search and rescue operations.
African Lion 2026, which marks its 22nd edition this year, involves the participation of military personnel from over 40 nations and is jointly organized by the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco and the American military. Officially launched in Agadir, Morocco, the exercise is set to continue until May 8, 2026, with approximately 5,000 military personnel involved, alongside experts in security and defense.
In response to the disappearance, coordinated search efforts have been initiated, employing a combination of land, air, and maritime resources from Moroccan and American forces, as well as other contributing nations. Africom has confirmed that an investigation has been opened to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the soldiers’ disappearance.
This alarming incident underscores the risks associated with military exercises conducted in unfamiliar terrains and the complexities of international military cooperation. As the search continues, updates will be provided by both Moroccan authorities and Africom.
As reported by ici.radio-canada.ca.
