Morocco and Algeria join U.S.-led naval drill in the Mediterranean amid regional tensions

The Royal Moroccan Navy is participating in "Phoenix Express 24," a multinational maritime exercise sponsored by the U.S. Africa Command and conducted by U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa, according to reports in regional media. Held in Tunisian waters from November 4 to 15, the exercise involves 1,100 personnel from 12 countries, including Algeria, Libya, Turkey, and Italy. 

The drill aims to bolster cooperation and enhance maritime security in the Mediterranean, focusing on intelligence sharing and operational readiness to counter smuggling and human trafficking. This exercise underscores shared security concerns even as political tensions simmer in North Africa.

Highlighting Morocco’s commitment to regional stability, Commandos from the Royal Moroccan Navy commandos recently demonstrated their capabilities by intervening off Tan-Tan to prevent a piracy attempt on a Liberia-flagged vessel, the Regina S. Moroccan forces swiftly took control of the bulk carrier, apprehending 54 migrants and securing the crew without incident.