European Union and Pirates Off Somalia

The EU is discussing possible military actions regarding piracy problems off Somalia.

European foreign ministers on Monday agreed to set up a "coordination unit" to help tackle the growing problem of piracy off the coast of Somalia, with the possibility of an EU naval mission in future.

"The resources of piracy have developed horrendously," said Bernard Kouchner, foreign minister of France which holds the EU's rotating presidency, speaking of very mobile, hi-tech operations involving small and large boats.

"We are responding to a call from the UN Security Council which called for international protection," said Kouchner.

"So far only Spain and France have responded," he added.

Both nations are tired of hearing about their ships in the news associated with Somalian piracy, so their participation reflects the desires to protect their interest. Both countries have fishing interests in the region.

The article ends with an interesting tactical approach to the problem.

Olivier Halloui, head of the Surtymar maritime safety company, said the best strategy was to hunt down the pirates in their home ports.

"We have to go and get them in their nests, keep close watch on the areas around their ports. Without ruling out land operations, under an international mandate of course."

"Because once out at sea, there is no chance. What used to be a little local business has become an industry, a powerful mafia, real professionals."

This is a 21st century problem that national navy forces do not seem to have the capabilities to deal with effectively. Clearly the pirate model is one the terrorism networks are watching closely, so finding ways to tackle the problem should be a national security concern.

On Sunday, a Panama-flagged oil tanker MT Golden Elizabeth was attacked in the Gulf of Aden. Thankfully the ship was able to escape, but it is one more example how September has turned into a nasty month for piracy off Somalia. It has already been discussed that by September 27th, the Canadians will be finished escorting WFP ships into Somalia, and the calls for help are already being made with a replacement yet to step up.

It is worth noting..., pirates control the sea, and Islamic terrorists are looking to control the flights at the airport. While there is no evidence the two actions are linked, both actions are contributing to disconnecting Somalia from the rest of the world, including the aid provided by the rest of the world.