Search Underway for Two Missing U.S. Soldiers in Morocco

U.S. soldiers are missing in Morocco after an incident near the Cap Draa Training Area during Exercise African Lion 2026. The soldiers were hiking to watch the sunset when one fell into the water. A second soldier jumped in to attempt a rescue after a human chain effort failed.

A third soldier also jumped into the water but was forced back to land due to rough waves. Both the original fallen soldier and the rescuer were swept away. The pair was last seen near sea cliffs and was not conducting training at the time.

Search operations are underway, utilizing drones, vessels, divers, and aircraft. The terrain and rough waters are complicating recovery efforts. Defense officials confirmed that one of the missing soldiers entered the water specifically to save the other.

The incident occurred in the North African nation where the soldiers were participating in the multinational military exercise. No further details on the soldiers' identities or units have been released.

2026 involves U.S. forces training alongside Moroccan and other international partners. The missing soldiers were off-duty during the hiking activity. Officials have not specified the exact timing of the incident but noted it as recent. Prayers and support have been expressed for the missing soldiers, the third soldier who attempted rescue, and the units involved in the search.

The U.S. military has not provided updates on the status of the operation beyond confirming it remains active.