Two U.S. service members reported missing during exercises in Morocco

Two U.S. military personnel participating in the 'African Lion 2026' training exercises went missing on May 2, 2026, at approximately 21:00. The incident occurred in the Cap Draa area near the city of Tan Tan, Morocco. The exercises, which involve approximately 5,000 personnel from over 40 countries, began on Monday in Agadir and are scheduled to conclude on May 8. Moroccan Armed Forces (FAR) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) officially confirmed the disappearance. Joint search and rescue operations involving ground, air, and maritime assets have been launched immediately by the participating nations. AFRICOM has also initiated an investigation to determine the specific circumstances surrounding the disappearance. No further details regarding the identities or current status of the service members have been released at this time.