European Naval Forces Intervene in Somali Piracy Incident: Dhow Rescued

A European naval force successfully liberated a Yemeni fishing dhow seized by suspected Somali pirates near the Horn of Africa. EUNAVFOR Atalanta played a crucial role, with increased international patrols reducing piracy, although recent regional tensions have led to a resurgence in Somali pirate attacks.

A European naval force has successfully freed a Yemeni fishing dhow after suspected Somali pirates seized it near the Horn of Africa. The operation, carried out by EUNAVFOR Atalanta, left all 12 mariners onboard safe and uninjured.

The attackers, who reportedly targeted the vessel last week off Somalia's Eyl town, abandoned the dhow taking personal belongings and two skiffs. EUNAVFOR highlighted that their rapid deployment, particularly of a helicopter, was critical in the vessel's liberation.

While piracy in the region has been reduced thanks to international naval patrols and Somali governmental efforts, recent regional instability has spurred a resurgence. According to the International Maritime Bureau, there were seven instances of Somali pirate attacks reported in 2024 amid ongoing tensions in the Red Sea corridor.

(With inputs from agencies.)