Recent Somali Pirate Activity Targets Yemeni Fishing Boats
Suspected Somali pirates have seized another Yemeni fishing boat off the Horn of Africa, marking the second incident in ten days. The European naval force is currently investigating this attack, amidst a concerning resurgence of piracy in the region, influenced by increased tensions due to Houthi rebel activities.
Suspected Somali pirates have reportedly seized another Yemeni fishing boat near the Horn of Africa, as stated by officials. The European naval force, EUNAVFOR Atalanta, confirmed that the incident involved a dhow—the traditional sailing vessel—off the coast near the Somali town of Eyl. This attack, which is currently under investigation, occurred just ten days following a previous incident in which pirates abandoned another Yemeni fishing vessel while leaving the mariners unharmed.
Piracy incidents off the Somali coast reached alarming levels in 2011, with recorded attacks numbering 237 that year, resulting in an estimated economic loss of $7 billion globally, which included ransoms amounting to $160 million. Efforts to combat piracy, such as international naval patrols and a more stable government in Somalia, have led to a reduction in attacks.
Nevertheless, there has been a resurgence in pirate activities over the past year, largely attributed to the instability instigated by Houthi rebels’ assaults in the Red Sea, amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The International Maritime Bureau reported seven incidents of piracy in 2024 off the coast of Somalia, indicating a worrying trend in maritime security.
The repeated incidents of piracy involving Yemeni fishing boats off the Somali coast highlight a troubling resurgence in such activities, despite prior reductions in piracy rates. The overarching influence of regional instability underscores the necessity for enhanced security measures and international cooperation to combat piracy. Additionally, the economic implications of piracy illustrate the broader impact of maritime insecurity on global trade and safety.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
Post Comment