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Anna in Washington, DC writes:

@ Donna in FL -- I completely agree with you. Track the money. Where is it going? Terrifying thought. The ransoms are funding more terrorism.

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

David in California writes:

A suggestion. Why not consider placing on ships traveling through the region armed guards similar to the air marshall program that was (or still is) instituted on airplanes after the incidents of hijackings of airplanes. The program could be administered by an international agency such as the United Nations and would consist of trained military personnel from several countries. The guards could board a ship before entering the region and remain on board until exiting the region. They would be given instructions to repel pirates trying to board the ship. Ship owners would be required to pay a fee for the guards services. While it might be expensive, it probably would be less expensive than having to pay several million dollars to ransom their ships and crews. It also would be less expensive and efficient for the countries currently maintaing naval ships in the area who apparently now cannot within a reasonable time arrive and assist a ship that is dealing with pirates.

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

Sofia G. in Portugal writes:

I would like to hear Secretary Clinton comments on a particular issue regarding Somalia,that is, the thousands of displaced people, trapped in a land which is impossible to cultivate and how that affect the population, particularly the women.

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/africa/human-tide-of-misery-flees-the-anarchy-of-somalia-1669948.html

Here is an article which that reports the situation I have mentioned above.

Best regards,
Sofia

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

Sylvain in France writes:

Blow them out of the water ! there are enough of these pirates!

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

Donna D. in Florida writes:

Follow the money.


Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

Ole in New York writes:

Violence solves nothing? I beg to differ. It DID solve just about everything in Germany and Japan in 1945, as it did in the Balkans in 1999. precisely in order to create a stable and legit Somali government, which by the way United Nations, U.S.A. and their allies have tried to do for some 20 years now, being thwarted more than anything by those very local 'freedom fighters', requires strong international military support. whoever wants a truly stable and prosperous motherland for Somalia, have to get on board with the international community's efforts there, perhaps start some sort of 'Somali awakening' after the likes of Iraqi one. these pirates, even if they do have legitimate complaints about violation of their country's waters by other countries' fishermen, or exploitation of its natural resources, have only increased the problem, essentially furthering the destruction of their nation. The real freedom fighters do not take innocent people hostage and hold them for ransom. Using injustice to justify banditry makes the crime only more despicable. if the former leader of Islamic Courts Union has gotten on board with the international community, becoming Somalia's new president, why the 'pirates' don't do the same, abandoning their violence against the very international community that wants and tries to save their land?

Understand the roots of the problem, we must; but equally so--- use every means necessary to stop the criminal chaos that has gone on for too long. As for possible civilian victims, both among the seamen and local population, we must lay blame for it squarely on the pirates themselves. It is their actions that essentially have made regular Somalis trapped in vicious circle of violence; whereas all we are trying to do , is to stop it and normalize life there. By the way, the same can and should be said about such other conflict zones as Afghanistan or Mexican drug war. There may be a lot of mistakes and neglect committed by world's main powers, when it comes to places like Somalia; just like there surely was injustice in the way Germany was treated in the aftermath of WW2; yet, that doesn't justify pirates' thuggery in the littlest bit, just like it didn't justify the Nazi regime. I think there should be a ground operation, broad as needed-- I believe the reason for the previous operations' failures was lack of scope and determination on U.S. and UN's part, rather than the idea of using military force to back up political settlement, as such. As I said, the blame for the possible victims must be laid squarely at pirates' door; and only after dealing with immediate violence, we may start true political settlement. I actually think, if these thugs-- pirates, Ash-Shabab etc.-- are shown clearly the determination of International community to put a stop to their actions, there will suddenly be much more readiness for settlement on their part.

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

M. Zayed in Egypt writes:

Phoenix Anti Piracy Unit from the US is Deploying Armed Security Teams on Foreign Ships Since the Past six weeks, and are sponsering with a Governemt, an international Conference on New Anti Piracy Policy in a few weeks next month to bring together the Government Insurance Shipping and Finance and other organizations to a private public partnership discussing the new trend in using private armed security such as used in planes, trains, and other forms of important cargo transport and storage where shipping is no different.Besides Phoenix, many other companies as mentioned by the other posters are ramping up capacity for the new policy shift in the insurance and shipping community.

The solution is Private Security, contracted under CENTCOM CT 151 AFRICOM UN or simply, hired by private shipping companies who are free to do as they please, since recent Legal Opinions are clear that it is quite legal and natural to impliment Onboard Security on High Value Ships Transiting Threatned Waters.

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

M. Zayed in Egypt writes:

Naval Armadas are not able due to being slow and thin in numbers and the restrictions on official navies..... The solution at the end of the day will be Onboard Security Teams and then later training of the Shipping Industry Seamen in Counter-Piracy Tactics and Methodology.

Then of course, the long term solution as it is with any criminal behaviour across a large group of poverty striken persons is to impliment strong long term presence or support inside Somalia itself, then with these two (2) acts the situation will be greatly reduiced and later on, nearly eliminated...........

Dr M Zayed is an Expert in International Cross Border Relations and has written many white papers on complex subjects. An international Anti Piracy Summit is being organized in Cairo now and Members of the US, other governments, Shipping Companies, Insurance and other key persons and Industry/Government Leaders are invited (to be announced by or before Monday April 20 2009)

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

John in Greece writes:

@ Dr. Drougos in Greece

Best Regards Dr.! I really admire 99% of your TV analysis here in Greece. However, I disagree with some of your points here. Unquestioningly, a healthy debate procedure though?

1. I'm sure that everybody agrees that the U.S. and NATO allies should act against the safehavens of the Somali pirates. Nevertheless, this is exactly what we already do (international western community). And we have to continue this action, until we find a permanent solution for the problem. But, the question is: what the FINAL solution is that won't cost enough/for ever and it will solve the problem once for all. Let's face the truth, America and NATO cannot pay for ever, in order for Russian, Chinese and other non-NATO country vessels -bringing goods to their countries- to enjoy a nice and free of charge Aden pass.

2. QUOTE: by attacking them (port facilities .etc) END QUOTE. Do you think that they use symmetric procedures during their operations? They take a very fast boat from the middle of nowhere and highjack our vessels. Simple as that! No ports, no documents, no authorities, no law, no NOTHING. African coasts, anywhere middle of nowhere/you cannot trace them.

3. QUOTE: ungoverned territories, thus creating further difficulties to engage and destroy them. END OF QUOTE. I think that you already answered yourself the No2p.

4. You know the map better than me Sir.
http://encarta.msn.com/map_701515944/red_sea.html

The problem is called Aden or Somalia just for now. These gangs can move to Eritrea, Yemen, Sudan, even Ethiopia and continue violating any international law.
So, according to my opinion, we have not just to deal with Somali pirates, but pirates in general, in the star of Aden/with the Red Sea.

5. QUOTE: based on precise intelligence END OF QUOTE. I absolutely agree with you, if we could have precise intel in such a difficult field though. The only nation that has invest for decades in Africa intel is America. But, they cannot keep on paying for all the others security. Nevertheless, I would suggest a really BIGGER budget for CIA Aden based operations. After all, they are the only guys with the know-how, history and background work. But, do you think that the international community will ever accept and sponsor such a project? No!

You see, CIA intel is good for keeping the Aden pass safe, but it's the "worst" Service on Earth, when someone is asked to give credit for CIA's existence and vision.

6. QUOTE: train a SOMALILAND Coast Guard END OF QUOTE. (see also 4) You cannot do that successfully, because of one more reason than (parag. 4). The situation there (Africa) is exactly the same with the Drug situation in Bolivia or Peru, Equador, Venezuela. That's why the International Community and DEA cannot reach a final point of solution. Different products (piracy/drugs), however, same methods and crime platform. You hire 100 state local officials to fight drugs and you end up to face this: either dealers change country and remain in business, or they kill 90 of the State employees, or they buy 10000 new soldiers, who keep them remain in the game.

In fact these comments of mine are a "welcome pass" inhere in order to to hear more of you.

Best Regards again!

Posted on Fri Apr 17, 2009

Andy in Illinois writes:

The international community should ban together and fight the piracy.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Youssef in Egypt writes:

I have an innovated solution for any hijacked ship / airplane / or persons any where in the world by pirates who want ransom to release. this solution is safe and the cost is almost nothing. if you are interested , please contact. best regards

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Chuck in North Carolina writes:

Mr. President, Madame Secretary of State, and Mr. Secretary of Defense:

I beg you to take whatever short-, medium-, and long-term measures necessary - but which comport with international law - to keep my son (now en route to the Gulf of Aden) and other merchant seamen safe on the high seas.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Ken in Hawaii writes:

Aloha, being that piracy off of Somalia is an international issue, it makes sense that the United Nations should form a task force to address Somalian concerns about their offshore waters and bring them up to speed on international law regarding the sea and international travel through offshore waters. All Somalian parties should be at the table at whatever venue is chosen. The resulting plan for developing an alternative to piracy should then be implemented under the UN's auspices. The plan should include the eventual release of current hostages and ships. UN forces should also be allowed to be present to protect any UN personnel and programs when in Somalia.

The warships operating off of Somalia should be brought under UN command and control in order to be effective and to enforce the agreement in lieu of a Somali ability to police its own shores without piracy. Somalia should also be able to put observers on the UN ships. This is the olive branch required before any forceful actions against Somalia can be condoned.

The Somalis do need a real world understanding of the consequences of their piracy to get them to give up piracy. However, stopping piracy off of Somalia without a cooperative Somalian citizenry will be expensive but it can be done. One problem is covering the vast distances that define the coast of Somalia. Both the British and Americans have Harrier jets that can take-off of any ship that carries helicopters. The USS Boxer may even have Harriers on board. Deploying Harriers on ships that can carry helicopters greatly shortens distances that have to be traveled for a timely response to pirate actions. The Harriers still have their mother-ship to return to for maintenance, etc.

Another problem is on-board security. This is managed by having two or three-man security teams with 50 cal. sniper rifles and night-vision equipment aboard vulnerable ships. The 50 cal. sniper rifle has an effective range of over a mile and easily can take our any pirate craft short of a mother-ship. The teams can also do it at better range than a similar gun on a pirate craft because the ship is more stable than a boat. If needed, these teams can be deployed by repelling off of helicopters and picked-up the same way. I am sure Blackwater is looking for work.

This approach will be more expensive than other methods but it will give Somalis pause. Attending a conference to get their coastal problems addressed and solved will look very attractive since it will be made clear that piracy can be marginalized. Mahalo and aloha.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Drougos in Greece writes:

I personally believe that the U.S. and NATO allies should act against the safehavens of the Somali pirates, by attacking them (port facilities .etc) baased on precise intelligence.It is well known that Puntland and Somalia are ungoverned territories,thus creating further difficulties to engage and destroy them.but we are living in a world of multidimensional asymmetric threats.I am afraid that Somali pirates and Al Qaeda remnants in Yemen/Horn of Africa are trying to increase the variety of threats to our World.I would also suggest to train a SOMALILAND Coast Guard, in order to facilitate and show a "regional approach" in the fighting against criminals at sea.Additionally political,legal and other measures should be introduced (enhancing international measures to deal with pirates). DROUGOS/Senior Defence and Counterterrorism Analyst/National and Joint Defence Colleges.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Peter in Illinois writes:

Good afternoon,

Continued request expand awareness as submitted here
http://www.alternet.org/water/136481/why_we_don't_condemn_our_pirates_in_somalia/

Thank you

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Should "Not respond" Jim? Kinda too late for that don't you think?

Yeah I did already say a "Marshal Plan for Somalia" was needed, but after we kick butt, take names, etc.

"Without security, nothing can be built." -Hamid Karzai

Last summer I was driving through Kansas in the middle of the night to see my daughter graduate the next day in Missouri. A couple guys in a little red hatchback shot in front of my 4x4, slowed down radicly, and prevented my getting around them, as we got down to about 25 mph on the interstate, he put his arm out the door and pointed what looked like a handgun at my windshield in an effort to stop me.

According to you, I should "Not react" to hiwaymen trying to carjack me in the middle of nowhere.

Instead I used my 4000 lbs 4x4 to do everything I could to "disarm" him, pointing it directly at his driver's door and causing him to pull his arm in before losing it and turning his car away to avoid mine. Right off the side of the freeway I drove him into a dich, then split the scene since he was armed and I wasn't.

When I relayed the incident to a state patrol officer at he next truck stop, he didn't have any problem with the action I took.

I should say you have not a clue how to solve this piracy problem, seeing as how I am able to be writing this, instead of decomposing in a ditch somewwhere.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

John in Texas writes:

The pirates appear to be monitoring the media regularly. Remember the idea of having marshals on planes? We put undercover marshals on planes to reduce highjackings. Why not place SWAT or SEAL teams on unidentified flagged U.S. ships that go through the area. Announce to the pirates through the world media what the U.S. plans are. After a few attacks with lots of publicity (and dead pirates), I would anticipate the rate of hijackings would decrease. The pirates would not know if there was a team on board or not until it was too late. This is much more cost effective than racing destroyers and cruisers around the gulf.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Jim W. in the United Arab Emirates writes:

The international community should NOT respond to piracy at sea, other than the most immediate self-defence measures. Piracy at sea is just a symptom of a bigger problem -- anarachy in Somalia. The international community ought to focus most of its efforts on ensuring that there is a political settlement in Somalia that is peaceful, long lasting, and just.

Because until there is peace in Somalia, there will be piracy at sea.

Jim W.
Middle East Correspondent
Fairplay International Shipping Weekly

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Bruce M. in Kentucky writes:

I suggest trying convoys of ships, escorted by the few military ships that may be available. It worked against the submarine threat in WWII. There would be no need for long distance circumvention of the area, although some ships may have to wait a limited time until a convoy and its military ship escorts could be assembled.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Julie in Illinois writes:

Listen to Abdi.

By all accounts the Somali pirates are attempting to protect THEIR maritime territory, in the only way they know how to do it. The seas are over fished by foreigners who apparently have no respect for the needs of the Somali people, who as Abdi pointed out, do not have a functioning government. Yet their people need to eat. There are also accounts of pollution in these waters. Though I'm not sure who polluted them, it would seem we should be trying to help the people of a governmentless country, to protect the resources they need to enable their survival.

According to the Taipei Times "With no coast guard to defend its shores, Somalis began complaining that vessels from Asia and Europe were dumping toxic waste in their waters and illegally scooping up red snapper, barracuda and tuna. The rampant illegal fishing began destroying the livelihoods of local fishermen."

So what started as an attempt to protect their livelihood, morphed into a moneymaking operation. A local elder said "people there used to make a living fishing, "but now the only livelihood they have is the income from the piracy. "

So in response to a people that has been in a state of war for decades, and whose children have grown up with nothing but violence and poverty, our response, if you listen to the east coast here, would be "level these towns?"

Nice Leslie. And I suppose you call yourself a Christian.

Violence solves nothing. The world has allowed Somalia to become and remain a failed state. We have plenty of Somali refugees here that could certainly give you concrete ideas about what we, and the rest of the world, could do to solve the situation.

I would begin by very publicly putting sanctions on any oceangoing vessels that violate Somali waters by polluting or overfishing them. I believe if they see that we are willing to help them, it would go a long way to begin a dialogue that would lead to a solution.

Fact is, since Somalia has no resources the West wants, the West had no interest in helping them reestablish a governmental system. We then looked the other way, when our commercial interests took advantage of that situation. now it has advanced to a point where people who had nothing can now be wealthy in a matter of days. Stakes are higher due to inaction and lack of interest. So who is really to blame here?

Find a solution befitting our Christian roots, not the twisted version that allows us to condemn christian leaders for one violation of religious precepts, but not the most basic. Whatsoever you do to the least of mt brethren, that you do unto me.

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Don in Minnesota writes:

Blow them out of the water

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Duncan in Washington writes:

An old and simple solution to the current piracy tactic would be the formation of scheduled convoys through the area. These would be easy to escort effectively through the region without trying to police thousands of miles of empty ocean. Problem (at least this symptom) solved!

Posted on Thu Apr 16, 2009

Glen in Texas writes:

Unlike a humanitarian situation, this is largely a mercantile issue that does not require intervention without compensation by the beneficiaries.

Work, in coordination with the UN, to have an international solution to the issue.

1. Under the aegis of the UN, form an international naval task force.
2. Participation should be amongst any country who wishes to participate (U.S., Canada, Russia, China, France, etc...).
3. The task force would establish a convoy schedule to escort ships through the Gulf of Aden with armed escorts.
4. Shipping companies and insurance underwriters would pay the U.N. a reasonable amount for each trip.
5. Each participating country would receive a ratable credit for a percentage of any remitted fees against their UN dues.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Markos in Mexico writes:

smoke em out like bush said

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Leslie in Massachusetts writes:

1. enforce a no boat zone 3 miles around the region. No boats without AIS and documentation should be blown out of the water outside the No Boat Zone

2. send in the the Seals and have them surround the towns where the pirates live

3. give a 24 hour window for innocent civilians to leave

4. completley level these towns

We have international law behind us. Freedom must be defended and collateral losses of lives is the cost of freedom.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Abdi in Massachusetts writes:

It's fundemental to understand what has forced this people to chase after ships in the high seas. Somalia has no functioning government since the collapse of the former regime General Siyad Barre. After the collapse of that administration, the world has deepened the civil war in Somalia. The world has supported the destruction of Somalia and Somalis didn't understand it. In consequences, this young pirates has born after the collapse of the state of Somalia. They are the product of the civil war.They don't know the meaning of government but they respect clans.

There are many ways that pirates can be stopped:

1- Support the establishment of Somali government which can regain the control of the country.

2- Hire these kids as a Somali Navy and let them protect their ocean.

3- Inform Somali elders the consequences this can bring in the land and how it could hurt the innocent people live in that country. so, every tribe will restrain their kids. Because this will cause inflation or no international ships will dare to go to the Somali ports. I forcast famine afterwards.

4- Using a force shouldn't be an option as long as the pirates are not killing the crew of the ships.

5- It's cheaper to reinstall Somali government than sending multinational warships.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Jean-Baptiste in Massachusetts writes:

First step: U.N. to declare Somalia a "No State"country.

Second Step: A coalition of all countries that are U.N. members;

Step three: As the Somalia's beach has 1800 miles long all countries owners of warships should secure the beach with an average of 100 miles by country participating in the operation (U.S.A, China, Russia, France, South Africa, etc..)

Step four:Erythrea, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Angola,etc...should invad Somalia by land and clean up inside.

The operation should be for a short time,very fast done.

The Somalia's governmnt in Kenya should be then be installed on power by U.N.

Remember, since Siad Barre left the power Somalia is like a jungle. Is a shame for the international community. Somalia is no longer a STATE. U.N. needs to act now.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Claude A. in Nebraska writes:

What should the International Community do? Sit around and wait and see what the United States will do! After-all, WE'RE part of that International Community. Other World Leaders are looking to OUR Leader to provide the LEADERSHIP he's expecting them to provide! We've got the biggest Navy! By millitary ettiquette, whoever commands the biggest force is expected to take command--which is why Eisenhower commanded D-Day and why the Bush Administration insisted Americans be in charge in Iraq. Failure of the mighty to take command is seen as weakness and a serious lack of resolve, some one who cannot be trusted or depended upon--somebody the rest of the world should best ignore. And they WILL be ignored. Except that the enemy will single them out for extra heavy attacks, which is what we see happenning.

Madame Secretary, what YOU should do is tour a few Los Angeles-class submarines and chat with the skipper and crew. Just ONE of these submarines could send EVERY pirate mother ship to the bottom and cruise home with a broom tied to her periscope (to announce a clean sweep). Every skipper will tell you his boat can do it and every crew member will exhude the same confidance THEY can do it! All they need is an order from the Commander in Chief. That's the difference between the U. S. Navy and the Pirates.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Howard in North Carolina writes:

dear lady secretary. piracy situation why not build PT boats,(world war II style) keep them simple don't over engineer them, plywood. rent them out to the shipping companies. make them longrange, they could cruise with the ships. got the idea truly howard

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Chuck in North Carolina writes:

My son's ship (Maersk line) left Norfolk last night en route to Dubai and Colombo via the Gulf of Aden. My wife and I are extremely concerned but trust that the Obama administration will take appropriate measures to ensure his safety. My suggestion would be, among others, to deploy contingents of Marines on merchant ships between Djibouti and Dubai and one or more aircraft carriers to provide both air reconnaissance and armed intervention as needed, i.e., sink the pirates' skiffs and mother ships. If in recent decades there were a legitimate use of our military might, it would be to protect American lives and interests on the high seas.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Alex in Colorado writes:

Put SWAT/Seal Teams on most of the vessels. When attacked, kill the pirates! Years ago, the FBI solved the car-jacking problem in the District of Columbia by sending a number of undercover agents out in cars. When a couple of hijack attempts were tried against agents and the assailants were shot, the activity died. This is a simple solution to a simple problem.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

John in Greece writes:

@ Jon in Texas -- Although I liked your idea very much, I disagree on a theoretical basis. We cannot allow to these gangs of rebels to determine our lives and freedom.

You see, Jon, if we adopt your sharp (indeed) idea it's like accepting the fact that next time we cannot travel to London, unless the "terrorists" give us the "Visa" to do so, we won't be able to go shopping, unless the "parking robbers" allow us to do so, or we will never be able to enforce the law without taking "military" action in order to do so. But then, WE -- Free World -- lose and they win. I don't know if I made my point clear. It's a bit theoretical!

In fact, the situation in Somalia has nothing to do with WW2. Back then, we certainly had to face a war. Today in Aden we have to deal with just some hundreds of "idiots", as Eric in NM perfectly described.
Will we give the chance to a little number of anarchists to make decisions concerning our lives, rising our costs and humiliating our values? No! We have to take measures in order to offer the world a permanent solution. Convoys are not a permanent solution and it costs a lot.

However, your idea (let's call it "pilot escort" -- exactly in the same way vessels use "pilots" to get through a canal) is fine, especially if you "marry" it with Joe's in TN suggestion. We can create "terminal stations", where ships can hire professional armed units from any of the reputable companies as Dyncorp and Blackwater U.S.A. It would be cheaper in the long run, especially in lowering insurance rates per vessel. When they pass the "bad" waters, they leave the private security personnel to the next "terminal (security) station" and continue their route.

Of course, again, we do not have a permanent solution, but I liked the idea, for now, of the "pilot basis" on a "private basis". Let's face the truth, we cannot have half of the NATO war ships in Aden waters for ever.

The most needed is a diplomatic/political solution, or even a military one. But we need a PERMANENT, cost efficiently democratic solution that won't hurt our dedication to FREEDOM, by sacrificing our values.
So, the question is what can we do towards a PERMANENT PERSPECTIVE?

P.S. @ some "Rambos" in the "topic room":

Guys, it's not a game or a movie. Otherwise, we would not have such a big problem. U.S. Navy and NATO forces are doing a great professional job. If you think you could do it better proceed with your applications for a DoD position.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Joe in Tennessee writes:

How do you destroy a Capitalist baised country?

Cost it money!!!...does anyone realize how much this operation cost?

Do not take me wrong. I'm all for Old Testament time for ANYONE who hurts, maims, kidnaps or threatens ANY AMERICAN CITIZEN without provocation anywhere in this world...as during the Nixon era...but, this is an avoidable circumstance which can be handled by Private Contractors and IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE FREIGHT LINES...not the U.S. Citizen.

How do we keep paying for: Natural disasters, unemployment due to unfair international trade practices involving Free Trade agreements, unprosecuted banking fraud Barons who put well over a million U.S. citizen on the street, have declared wars, International Competition which is turning toward protectionism, Russia new rise...now this. How do we keep printing money to cover it all? Where does it come from and where will it end?

If there are not going to be any changes in International Law to permit the use of private contractor for Security purposes, then what is the overview and objective? Either that, or simply go after them and eliminate the problem. It should not be that difficult since even the Free Press can garner an interview from their leadership base and knows where they collect.

Eliminate the problem militarily or hire personal who will? Does anyone honestly think any Nation will care if they perish?

There is a time to STOP the Politics and take action -- this is one of them.

Nice work by the way....

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Brian in Texas writes:

Send in the Marines to occupy the entire coastline of Somalia. Then sell the land to luxury resort speculators. Somali pirates can get jobs at the hotels as porters.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Rich in North Carolina writes:

I find these modern day pirates to lack codes and any sense of style. I think shipping companies should give me funding for a group in which I, my pirate bird and fellow pirate purists go out and hunt these modern day pirates that give pirates a bad name. I would sink there ships (in full pirate getup) with my cannon balls and make any survivors walk the plank into shark infested waters. Best of all it would be effective because I wouldn't have to adhear to all the "rules and regulations" that cause our Navy to be so ineffective in these kinds of situations.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Tom in Florida writes:

Allow the shipping companies to hire armed security guards that are stationed aboard the vessels. Without the ability to fight back, they are literally just sitting ducks. Now that the Somali pirates have vowed to kill American and French nationals on contact, the stakes are simply too high for us to ignore this problem anymore.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Jerry in Georgia writes:

Partner with other nations to temporarily rescind the non armament ban on commercial shipping in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean area. Allow cargo ships and freighters to have their own surprises waiting for the next attempts by Somali Pirates to hijack vessels. Station a few U.S. Navy Submarines in the waters off the Somali coast to monitor situations and to surface to take action at any signs of pending attacks.

Perhaps for a period of time, place groups of U.S. Navy Seals on board American flagged cargo ships and freighters in these waters to take definitive preventative actions at the first signs of an impending attack or hijacking.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Patricia S. in New York writes:

Great job Navy Seals.

Posted on Wed Apr 15, 2009

Patanjali in Australia writes:

Patrolling with warships IS very expensive.

I suggest that each ship could carry enough UN armed troops to be an effective deterrent.

They only need to be on board for that part of the journey passing through the danger area. To that end, there would need to be a warship at each end of the shipping lanes through the area. The UN troops would transfer from a warship before a ship enters the danger area and transfer to a warship after the ship has left the area. There may only need to be two or three warships required in total.

Of course, there would have to be clear rules of engagement, though a couple of warning messages, warning shots then blowing them out of the water should provide a reasonable escalation path.

It would not require many troops with a range of suitable weopons to repel small pirate boats. However, there are two foreseeable ways the pirates can escalate the situation:

a. Use larger boats with significant and far-reaching firepower.
This may require larger, appropriately equipped UN teams, or
Provide rapid-deployment aerial support (jet or helicopter), either from the forementioned warships, or specially equipped warships within the area.
Because there would be less larger boats, they would probably be easier to track by satellite and thus easier to intercept earlier.
Pirates may just use more smaller boats on each hijack attempt, but with enough long-range weaponry and minimal increase in troops should prove more than enough.

b. Take hostages on the piracy attemps. With small piracy boats, sharpshooters in the UN teams may be able to handle it, but less open pirate boats may be be more difficult.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Paul in California writes:

Dear State Department,

Congratulations to the U.S. Navy for saving the life of Captain Phillips!!

Here's a simple suggestion that will stop Somalian pirates immediately: Convoys.

Convoys worked well in World War II against sophisticated Axis submarines. They should surely work against rag tag pirates in skiffs and speedboats.

Here's what we can do:

1) Request all ships traveling to or from the Suez Canal and up or down the African Coast to rendezvous at predetermined assembly points out of harm's way that are protected by Naval warships. Ships from all nations can and should be encouraged to participate.

2) Organize the ships into one or two convoys each day in each direction. Each convoy will be escorted by two to four naval ships with helicopters. Navies from all nations can and should be encouraged to participate.

3) Put out the word all over Somalia via airborne leaflets and radio that If any radar contact is made by the convoy of approaching vessels helicopters will be dispatched. The approaching vessels will be warned to stay away with shots across their bows.

4) If any attempts are made by pirates to attack or board any convoy ships the pirates will be disabled or sunk by the helicopters.

We as a nation, and the entire civilized world, have to do whatever it takes to stop the criminals in Somalia from hijacking civilian shipping and kidnapping innocent civilians. Especially now that the pirates are threatening to kill Americans and French hostages from now on simply because we decided to defend ourselves. It is our duty to defend ourselves from criminals.

This is war now. The pirates have declared war on us! I have read article after article and opinion after opinion and nowhere have I even heard the word convoy mentioned. Why can't we do this?? Is there any valid reason why this wouldn't be effective?

Sincerely yours,

Paul S.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Joe in Tennessee writes:

Only one: Pass new International Treaties that allow armed private contractors. A five or six man Professional Security Team would be more than sufficient and are available at a cost to all countries Taxpaying citizens for much less than deployment and artificial political promenades, which only empower these terrorist. Arrangements can be made for the locking of weapons for defense at port of any foreign port. There is no legitimate excuse for all this rhetoric and press.

I was under the impression that piracy was an act of war in International waters and do not understand the difficulty of hiring professional guards/soldiers.

There is no real manner to treat this beyond what it is. It would be excusable to some extent if those involved were trying to develop a democracy within Somalia; however, that is not the case and all argumentation of any political reference is irreverent.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Marsha in Ohio writes:

Secretary Clinton is correct about Morocco's stance on pirates (then called corsairs) vis-a-vis the United States. According to U.S. Naval Records, Morocco was the first nation to recognize the sovereign United States and gave letters of introduction to other Barbary Coast leaders to give preference to the United States over Great Britain.

That said, one must also recall that at one point piracy was so common that even the Pope maintained his own fleet of corsairs.

Piracy in the past was a means of generating federal revenue to avoid taxing a nation's impoverished citizens.

Piracy now may be a symptom of the failed unified Somali state. The fracturing of Somalia prevents a national government from regulating oil exploration by Canada, Mexico, China and perhaps other countries.

Piracy may be a dis-ease caused by the political insecurity fomented by a lack of international recognition and support of a federal government in Somalia.

Whatever happened to FDR's Atlantic Charter and the right to self-determination?

Sorry, Tad. This Buckeye does not see eye-to-eye with you.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Mike in Virginia writes:

Use private companies like Blackwater to guard the ships -- a lot cheaper than paying a huge ransom like the Saudi's did. The international community needs to step up its presence in Somalia to resolve the political issues which necessitate people making a living out of piracy and attack land bases associated with these criminal organizations. China where you at?

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Toni in Minnesota writes:

Maybe the ships could be equipped with sonic protection. Irritating and incapacitating sound to deter the pirates.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Toni in Minnesota writes:

Could satellite technology assist in the patroling of these areas? Isn't there some way to coordinate satellite technology with shipping schedules to help keep an eye on possible targets?

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Kenny in California writes:

Given my rather simplistic understanding of the situation, and without the knowing of all details the U.S. needs to head things off in the U.N. With its veto power it could force other countries to hopefully push towards greater restrictions. The ability to sell black market parts of ships is how the entity exists, therefore if countries which have looser legislation to unload the goods were put under pressure (perhaps economically to begin negotiations) it might force the entire community to help police itself and take on international pirates. After all these countries can not sustain themselves without trade, and by closing off markets they base country would be forced to police itself in order to sustain itself with free trade in the international community. Shortly after the U.N. could then vote to end "international waters" or create a governing board of the 22 industrialized nations with a world power oversight committee that must sign off as actions which could include The European Union, Russia, China, and the U.S.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Mandy in Washington writes:

I completely agree that the best solution is to arm ships; however, if the government cannot stand having armed vessels then they need to take initiative. Now.

An alternative is to target the motherships. Pirates can operate in small lifeboats hundreds of miles off the coast only because they use a mothership. Naval ships, regardless of what country, should start picking up these "bases" and bring them back to shore. Here we can disarm them and continue to deal with them as we please.

Action needs to be taken. This last episode with the Maersk has really hit home with Americans. Hopefully people will finally get their heads out of the clouds and realize that this is an on-going issue that has to be taken seriously. Someone needs to step up to the plate and just take charge.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Marco in U.S.A. writes:

Give the opportunity to all to negotiate, but don't expect the answer yes all the time. Sometimes saying yes to something can actually be a bad thing, and saying no can have just as much the same affect with no regards to whom the individual be. Approach the community by this standard, yet conserve your words, but take with action. Large nations must unite to stop such groups, but we must see past our own personal interests and come into what is common amongst all. The international community can respond by taking control of themselves, of their own lives, and by living right amongst all man, woman, and child. Bring no wrong and you will see a major positive change.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Georgiann in California writes:

Hmmm. Bio-infected cash...now that's a thought. Two points --

Love the Jeffersonian idea, however zero tolerance with immediate action seems to be the safest course. Vessels must take up arms and be prepared to defend themselves. A "Take no prisoners" attitude in self-defense will require that pirates attempting to board a vessel be killed. No questions asked.

To alleviate culpability on behalf of the shipowners, a program of specially trained internationally recognized ship-marshals could be hired to ride along on randomly selected vessels.

Posted on Tue Apr 14, 2009

Donald in Virginia writes:

SOLVING THE PIRACY ISSUE CONSIDERATION

1. I believe the U.S. Navy should implement a line of force, bring in enough AEGIS Destroyers to create a barrier between the cargo ships passing through the area. A great wall of force that the pirates cannot enter! Blockaid all small vessels trying to make it out to the open seas.

2. The Navy might also want to consider the Silent Service to provide assistance rooting out the pirates.

3. Bait and Catch method -- Bait the cargo ships and have Destoyers go around to pickup those pirates.

4. A great wall of force 20 miles away from the coast should be ideal with plenty of U.S. Warships having Gun Sights and surviellience on the pirate ships.

Countries around the world should be working with the United States to prevent piracy from happening. Especially, if they are shipping goods. We all should be working together to root out piracy!

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Jon in Texas writes:

Congratulations to the SEALs and the decisionmakers who allowed the resolution of the Maersk hostage situation.

Why can't the flag nations of the merchant vessels, or a centralized organization such as NATO or the UN, station Marines on each merchant vessel that enters the waters surrounding Somalia. Well-defined rules of engagement should allow the Marines to protect the vessels and would discourage the pirates. Is it the shipping companies themselves that prevent this from happening?

Failing that, why not organize convoys of ships to traverse waters surrounding Somalia? Each convoy would be protected by one or more naval vessels that could have interdiction authority. Rules of engagement should be flexible enough to allow the commander on the scene to respond as necessary to any piracy threat.

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ John in Greece, Back in 2003 or so, my brother showed me an 8.5" x 11" photo given to him by a friend who had just become a SEAL. It was a "graduation" photo of his teammates dressed impeccably in their dress whites, some standing, some kneeling, a completely traditionally posed, "team photo"....not a bubble rising....18 feet under water.

You'd have to become like a Buddhist monk to achieve that kind of grinding dicipline and exhaustive routine of investigating one's potential.

A HALO jump onto a U.S. destroyer? All in a day's work.

Thing is, there's three dead pirates that didn't give folks any other choice but to shoot them.

If pirates "walk the plank" into a courtroom and a prison cell, so be it. That would be a testiment to civilization. However, each one of us chooses their own destiny, and pirates might ought to consider other options, like not putting themselves in harm's way by being pirates.

Life is hard, but it's harder when you're being stupid.

Live and learn I guess. Or not.

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Donald in Virginia writes:

QUOTE: "BRAVO ZULU TO THE U.S. NAVY SEALS AND US SAILORS ALONG WITH THE U.S. MARINES. PRESIDENT OBAMA MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE AND MR. GATES EXECUTED IT VERY WELL. PROUD DAY FOR ALL U.S. NAVAL VETERANS AND ACTIVE DUTY. GLAD TO SEE THE CAPTAIN RELEASED AND SAFE." UNQUOTE.

Godbless and Great Job!!!

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

John in Greece writes:

@ Eric in New Mexico -- Great balls of fire!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bB5xL577r4 -- dedicated to the Seals and Mr. Gates.

Rebels indeed took the first message...

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Liban H. in the United Kingdom writes:

To be honest the only way to deal with this problem of piracy is to deal witht the root cause of the problem and as we can see the root problem is Somalia itself. What the International Community in particular the United states can do is to empower the current somali government headed by Sheikh Sharif, in order to establish law and order in somalia. After that the Pirate will no longer have a safe haven in somalia as well other bandits and terrorist, who are causing a major problem to the security of the world.

As Lord Palmerston once said 'taking the wasps nest is more effective then catching the wasps one by one.' When somalia has a function government then we shall see and to the piracy. Does anyone agree?

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ John in Alaska -- You can step on ants, but until you deal with the ant hill, you'll still have an ant problem.

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Tad in Ohio writes:

Piracy on the high seas is a real and continuing threat to international commerce. Seafaring nations must not tolerate this type of crime. What people need to realise is the real victims of piracy are innocent seamen who are only trying to make a living for themselves and their families. Something MUST be done to protect them.

Navies can patrol waters where pirates operate, but they cannot be everywhere at once. Shipping companies need to put armed security officers on their ships that travel through places like The Gulf Of Aden and The Indian Ocean. But armed officers aboard ships is not enough. Governments need to enact legislation that allows those armed officers to properly protect themselves and the crews they serve with. Too often, laws are used against the innocent people who are legitimately defending themselves from attack by criminals bent on committing violent acts.

Secretary Clinton talks of "working to bring an appropriate 21st century response." So far the only response she has given is to laugh about how Morocco worked with us to end the priacy threat in North Africa during The Jefferson Administration. According to my research, Morocco got out of the piracy business against American ships after a Navy task force under the command of Commodore Edward Preble forced them too. If Secretary Clinton cannot even be bothered to research the history of the piracy problem, how is she supposed to come up with an appropriate response?

So while Secretary Clinton laughs and President Obama apologises to the world for America because apparently he believes everything wrong in the world is America's fault. Innocent merchant seamen from America and other seafaring nations continue to go in harm's way. Because navies aren't big enough to protect them all and no seems to want to let them protect themselves when navies can't be there to do it. The first step to solution is for Secreatry Clinton to stop laughing and President Obama to stop apologising and to stand up for the innocent victims of this abhorrent crime.

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Edite in Canada writes:

Bravo, WELL DONE, kudos, plaudits and THANKS to those wonderful U.S. NAVY SEALS. Can't thank you enough for your courageous, professional, sharp and great rescue. You are amazingly well-trained men and deserve medals for your bravery and expertise. Saying thank you just doesn't seem quite like enough. Now, DOS, strategies need to be put in place now, not to placate the pirates, but to convince them that criminal acts of piracy will not be tolerated by the international community. We all recognize that actions always speak louder than words and more action will be coming their way if piracy continues. Piracy is a distinct provocation and requires a very strong actionable response, one they will all understand.

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Kasperus in Poland writes:

To control piracy in Somalia diplomatically will take years. Since pirates are bandits, no matter how organized, the international community should take a firm stand with the pirates and stop paying ransom. We don't pay ransom to organized crime cartels, why should we do it here. Firm, pugnacious or military action like that of France and U.S. hopefully multilateral, will be a deterrent even though in the absence of agreement, unilateral punitive action may provoke terrorist activity.

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

Palgye in South Korea writes:

i see this article,

In Rescue of Captain, Navy Kills 3 Pirates

it`s good.................................................

Posted on Mon Apr 13, 2009

John in Alaska writes:

I agree with Zharkov in USA. Limited arms should be allowed on cargo ships to protect their cargo and themselves. This makes more sense than curing the problem with mega amounts of money, diplomacy, and military intervention after the fact.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Diane in Connecticut writes:

I believe something should be done about piracy. Piracy has been illegal since its inception. There is no reason for the modern world to put up with it. Teach pirates that piracy does not pay and it will end. I know this is probably not an easy task but it is one that most of the world can agree upon and that should help.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Hat's off to the US navy SEAL team that rescued the captain, who swam for it a second time.

Hoo-ahh!

Score 1 for the good guys.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Ron in New York writes:

Post-Release statement on CNN:

When a top-ranking US Maritime Academy Official calls Shipping ...a losing lottery ticket".. and Piracy a "...winning business plan...." we are all in deep trouble. Where on earth does this kind of complacency come from? Have we really disconnected the hijack of Private Maritime Shipping Industry from the enforcement of International Law? Pirates are wet-terrorists. They are organized crime agents in international waters, they would seize nuclear materials and sell them to AQ in a hot second. Next time they strike, pay them immediately with bio-infected cash.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Leonard in Florida writes:

"Can Somalia be used to solve the root issues in the Middle East conflict?" Somalia is haven to these pirates in large part due to the lack of an effective government. Therefore, the pirates rule within the territories under their influence. Bottom line, Somalia has abdicated its governence of much of its north-eastern coast, the pirates must be denied safe haven, the Palestinian peoples core issues can be traced back to the siezure of their homes and land in the establishment of Israel, and here is an opportunity to set the Middle East on a new course totally different from the recent past by establishing a Palestinian state in the north-eastern areas of the former Somalia.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Tina in Vermont writes:

Hello and thanks for this opportunity,

My comment is an appeal for our government's response to this piracy situation to come from a recognition of it as a symptom of an ever-present social disease that has gone unchecked in any real and substantial way. For the last decade the unregulated business ventures into Africa have been conducted without much if any social conscience, global responsibility or accountability. These are the original criminals in this situation. Any time I heard former Pres. Bush speak about Africa I was reminded of our own recent history in North America, namely the frontier days. He is a bully who occasionally did something positive to keep the balance. Smarter than we think. So when toxic waste was and is dumped and left for the locals to deal with and we turn a deaf ear, blind eye and some kind of dissociative indifference to the very real devastation of communities we lose our credibility in a widespread way. I wonder what any of us would do had we been born in east Africa in the early '80s. Are they just crazy or are they desperately holding onto what self respect they have left if any, and taking matters into their own hands? This is human compassion 101. As an American citizen I do not take the piracy personally. It didn't have to go this far. I know in my heart that Sec. Clinton has a grasp of the larger social picture and encourage her to share her true insights with the world. Some may be criminals, however, most are probably average people playing the cards dealt them. I am from VT and strongly suspect their is a great wisdom at work with the hostage Navy Captain who is being held. We must live up to the principles we promote. Our demonstration of strength via principled behavior is the key to effective solution. Thus far, since the 20th of Jan. '09 the foreign policy has improved tremendously, you are changing some of the foundation and that is positive. Many of us average citizens, thanks to broadband mostly, are becoming better informed and like myself shall actively support standing up to the hate mongers and political spinmasters. Rise to your principles, stop letting war mongers and gangsters dictate the context in which you speak. Africa has been massively wounded in many ways. That is the ultimate disrespect via dishonesty and violence. The U.S. must show strength via humility. Suck it up and tell the truth. True amends are LIVING amends. There is a huge difference between admitting harms done in pursuit of solution and groveling in one's own mess while pointing fingers. The U.S. can do this, I shall do more on my grassroots level while you do globally.

Thanks again for this chance to connect,

Tina in VT

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Alan in Ohio writes:

21st century response? What is that? Pirates need to be dealt some Jeffersonian Diplomacy. No Ransom, They Surrender Unconditionally, Attach a line to the life boat and keep it in International Waters for as long as it takes. If the American Captain is harmed they should be tried then executed. No Exceptions.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Harry in Virginia writes:

Piracy deserves the same response it did in the 19th Century. Do what Thomas Jefferson did and wipe them off the face of the Earth.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Judith F. in New York writes:

Dear Secretary Clinton:

I am trying to follow how the hostage situation is being resolved. It's hard for me to believe that, as reported, the U.S. "broke off negotiations" with the group of Somali elders who were being helpful. In my view -- we should have accepted their offer to free the hostage in exchange for freedom for the pirates. Plus pay the ransom if necessary! What's the difference if another 4 pirates are running around there? This is not a time to enforce our rigid notions of justice, especially if it has no effect.

We should do all that's necessary to free the captain, and THEN begin an intelligent international strategy to deal with the piracy situation. This should BEGIN WITH a plan to develop other economic opportunities for desperate Somalis -- and perhaps other scenarios that will satisfy their appetite for dramatic and bold action. Hot competition for scholarships in the U.S. perhaps?

Thank you.

Posted on Sun Apr 12, 2009

Lenora in Virginia writes:

International community must put a stop to piracy at sea. It's out of control.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Janet in North Carolina writes:

The international community should respond by continuing to intimidate with naval forces. Hopefully the captain will be released unharmed. Negotiations need to continue in order to put these criminals, the so called pirates, in prison.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

John in Virginia writes:

International law is pretty clear -- UNSCR 1851 calls upon member states to take action under article VII; the Somali government (such as it is) has specifically requested action. Sounds like Korea.
The Convention on Law of the Sea specifically names piracy as a crime with universal jurisdiction; U.S. Code also defines it as a crime punishable by life in prison. Under UNCLOS, while only warships can inspect suspected vessels, any vessel can resist attack. If the vessel is captured anyway, the captured ship is now a pirate, and any warship may take action.

The only question is whether we 1) arm the merchants (deterrence works), 2) take land-based action (the pirates are feeding their ransom money to terrorists, so it's in every nation's interest), or 3) issue letters of marque (the U.S. isn't a party to the Treaty of Paris, it's in the U.S. Constitution, and guidelines are in U.S. law). An interesting twist is that the U.S. President can specifically authorize U.S. flagged ships--not just warships--to take action against pirates. Title 33 USC (the navigation laws).

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Ron in New York writes:

Piracy is Terrorism

What are we waiting for?

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Palgye in South Korea writes:

We support ours supports inside and thinks solving one method. The civilizational ratio is very low, is a country where the adverse sentiment is big about external influence and the above the citizens support the pirate regular warfare or the access method which is official thinks that the possibility of the terror which is indiscriminate to be high is a qualitative possibility about many time and effort and outside world. Of course, activity of the regular army which is official and open to the public in parallel and does thinks that. Attaches and missionary work and thinks ngo that must execute the education which lowers a support and an illiterate ratio about the people which leads. The existence base of the pirates thinks that they become object of envy support receiving because from poorly the escape is possible. - Thinks that the regiment sensitivity which is tribal is operating. And, the small end is and Oh selects some and thinks that the method to send studying abroad is. Military affairs, agriculture and trade, administrative etc.(if, if China and Russia only conceives comes and goes and capital which will not be problem which is any thinks that is,) Until here secret intention is the thought which lacks a little.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Keith in Florida writes:

With the recent events surrounding the Maersk container vessel and the hostage situation that is currently going on, I believe that the U.S. Government needs to go IMMEDIATELY to the UN Security Council and get authorization to use military force to go into Somalia and capture (and if necessary, kill) these Somali Pirates, and/or bring them to justice. The pirates should be then tried by an international tribunal to bring them to justice and throw them into Prison!!! This could even be a coalition effort involving several countries. Look what France did, kudos to them for using force to not tolerate the Somali pirates.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Brian in Colorado writes:

The Fates are smiling on this new President and his new Secretary of State. For a number of different challenges have swirled together to form a daunting challenge that this team, and this Department, can solve through smart Diplomacy.

Oh, Blessings!
In one fell swoop, President Obama can show his detractors (and the rest of the World) how to deal with failing states, Islamist "terrorist" groups, and piracy.
Oh, Happy Day!
This can even be timed to coincide with the annual celebration of Christ's rising from the dead.
On second thought, considering the Muslim position on that claim, let's not play up that aspect.

What Would Grownups Do?
For starters, there is a marginally functioning local government in the Northeast corner of Somalia, the Puntland autonomous region. The new President elected in January 2009, General "Faroole," just told the BBC that he encourages the US Navy to liberate not only Captain Phillips but all 200+ seafarers being held hostage. Do it by force and pay no ransom!

That sounds like someone we ought to support.
In fact, working through this local government is the key to success. The US ought to help build up this local government so that they can handle the pirates. Help them build a Coast Guards force, a local police force, improve their judicial and penitentiary systems.

Consider the collateral benefits.
A stronger local government will facilitate the distribution of urgently needed food aid. But it will also stabilize the area so that commerce can flourish, reducing and eventually eliminating the need for outside aid.
A stronger local government, and the security and stability it entails, will inoculate Puntland against the contagion of al-Shabaab.
And a stronger local government will patrol sovereign waters, nabbing both foreign poachers and domestic brigands.

Oh, wouldn't it be loverly?

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Henry M. writes:

The Somali pirates and the terrorists running rampant in Somalia do not understand diplomacy and only understand force and domination. The Somali will disrespect and ridicule peaceful overtures and they only understand the code of the warrior.

The only solution is to kill the pirates, kill their leaders, and destroy their boats and harbors. Secretaries Clinton and Gates should realize this and take this under consideration.

We are not at war with the Somali but we will not appease these criminals or allow them to intimidate us on the high seas.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Joanne in Illinois writes:

What is the purpose of having a US Navy warship sit and stare at a bunch of pirates and do nothing to save the hostage? Why do we have a Navy? Why are Secretary of Sate Hillary Clinton and President Obama not taking action on resolving this incident?

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Kevin in Iraq writes:

First of all we all need to pray and hope that this standoff is ended with no casualties! They need some Jesus in them, DOS needs to be in the middle because that is what you do? That is why you are state Dept, you ensure that we americans are safe and well informed. Thank you for your hard work! I say let the military get involve if there is a threat towards the americans but they need to be very tactiful in trying to rescue the ship. The ships were warned of this route, so I put them to blame on their part. People need to listen and stop trying to be hard headed and to listen to what they are saying. We are not the world police. To end this please keep GOD in the middle of evrything we do! I say blow them up out of the water but we need no deaths!!!!

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Lou in U.S.A. writes:

It may be a centuries old criminal act but it requires an 21st century response. Uphold any martime and international laws and prosecute the culprits. A message must be sent that this type of blatant act will not go without having consequesnces. For no action, sends the wrong message.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Zharkov in U.S.A. writes:

Somali pirates just took another ship today, an unarmed tugboat with a crew of 16. While this hits the news, private yachts are also seized by Mexican pirates right off our own coast and this rarely is publicized. I think with each ship taken, we should repeat our advice, so I will.

Our government should get busy requiring loaded firearms aboard U.S.-owned ships and private yachts so our people can stop being humiliated and held for the world as the weak, defenseless victims we appear to be.

The U.S. Navy cannot possibly protect every ship in every part of the world, and by the time they arrive, hostages have been taken and civilian ships are lost.

The reason why home-invasion robberies are rare in Texas but a daily event in California, is because Texans shoot back.

When one guy with an AK-47 can seize an oil tanker because our public officials are more afraid of their own sailors being armed than they are about criminals being armed, the problem is the government.

The ship Captains are not afraid of their own crews and don't object to arming them. In the past, ships had armory rooms where weapons were stored until needed in hostile waters, and it is time to bring back that custom.

My view is that each ship is a sovereign vessel entitled to self-defense, the same as every nation, and it is ridiculous to continue paying millions to pirates when a dozen semiautomatic weapons can be purchased for under $10,000.

We trust the Boy Scouts with rifles, we trust recent high school graduates with military weapons when they enlist in our military, we trust our Olympic shooting team with guns, and we even trust high school dropout security guards with guns, so why not trust our highly trained Merchant Marine officers and yacht owners with guns?

It wouldn't cost the U.S. government a penny for combat operations when a U.S. vessel successfully repels a pirate attack using small arms fire.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Nancy in California writes:

I agree with Edite from Canada. Blow them out of the water a couple times and I would bet the piracy stops or at least decreases. This may be harsh, but another alternative is to fire upon them -- get close enough to scare them perhaps without killing them. The problem, once they take a hostage, is that it escalates to a whole different level. If you negotiate with them, then this will give them a sign that they should do this more often -- if you don't, you run the risk of having the hostage die. It would seem to me, then, they have to be stopped before this happens and that requires stiff, and probably violent, action.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Stan in Illinois writes:

I firmly believe that our President is a wimp. If our ships are attached in international waters, we should destroy the attackers. We need to send a strong message to the world, that if you screw with the United States you meet your maker.



Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Edite in Canada writes:

At the risk of recommending violence or targeted strafing, a good choice would be to blow them out of the water. Do that a couple of times and perhaps the pirates will get the message, hopefully. How can the international community just stand by, play a watchful, waiting game, commiserate amongst themselves, agree woe is me, use wasteful chit chat and let these criminals do their thing. The UN should have their members' heads banged together to wake them up and demand that they issue a resolution, now, to end this lunacy. Just do it! The international community is relying on 21st century-type baby talk and playing nice-nice hoping the pirates will back off and retreat. They are showing more guts and gumption than we are. In fact, we look downright weak, distressed,in disarray, foolish, overwhelmed,and with virtually no plan of action to end this piracy for good. Wake up, world, and smell the coffee.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Glenn in Malaysia writes:

for a start, stop dumping toxic waste off the coast of somalia so the fisherman can go back to earning a livelihood

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Wendy in California writes:

As our first hope is to get the noble captain -- who offered up himself in lieu of his crew -- out alive, some of the more John Wayne suggestions are moot.

Some kind of Navy Seals punching an underwater hole in the boat (*not* blowing a hole in the boat) might work.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Article 105 of the International Law of the Sea Convention permits the capture of a pirate vessel, but article 110 only allows a warship to identify a ship as being a "pirate" vessel.

Like mariners on cargo ships can't tell the difference...

And then get this folks...the warship must send a launch over to it and ask for its "papers".

I would really like to know the name of the brilliant beaurocrat that came up with this cuckolded idea, so Dipnote can make the idiot famous!

Now it seems to me that with regard to American flagged vessels, crewed by Americans, that the Second Amendment of the Constitution applies to the high seas as it does on land.

Which means that no shipping company owning an American flagged vessel, and hiring Americans to crew it may deny by company policy, an American's right to bear arms in defense of his home or person.

And that the very fact American mariners live aboard an American flagged ship for extended duration gives them the right to defend it against all enemies that may threaten it.

With deadly force if need be.

Now the last time we armed merchant vessels was back in ww2 I believe, and only after we were in a declared state of war.

Given that we are in a declared state of war with al quaida, and al-quaida has been active in Somalia for some time, perhaps we arn't dealing with simple pirates looking to make a fast buck, but are dealing with "Bin Laden's navy".

Unlike McHale's navy, they arn't exactly incompetent, and asd to the question asked here of "who's funding them?"

Well, the shipping lines are doing a real good job of that by paying out huge ransoms.

The Somali president is not the problem, he's publicly invited the international community to put boots on the ground to deal with not only our problem, but his as well.

I suggest we do so, and call it a "Marshall plan for Somalia" after we kick butt, take names, and "walk 'em off the plank".

Unilaterally if no one else is willing. And if we have to do this ourselves, then let's bill every nation that hasn't the guts to join us so this won't be done totally on the backs of the American taxpayer. I think we can at least count on the French this time around, given their recent action.

Posted on Sat Apr 11, 2009

Connie in U.S.A. writes:

The US needs to be agressive and arm the crew members -- until then our government needs to send in what ever resources (Navy Seals, etc) to disable the pirates -- use force, no pussyfooting around. These people are terrorists!

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Ron in New York writes:

Get Real.....

Place decoy Ships; and use airstikes to sink approaching Pirate vessels.

Locate Pirate enclaves at Somalia; Destroy them.

Hold Somali government responsible for Piracy.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Susan in Florida writes:

@ Zharkov in U.S.A. -- Well said. I may not agree with you on NATO and Russia, but I agree with you on this. Why are we even hesitating to use force against these thugs/criminals? What am I missing here? Are there not laws of the oceans that address these issues? The ransoms they receive are most probably being used to advance terrorism. But even if the money wasn't being used for that purpose, piracy is a CRIME. All nations with ships at sea are at risk. We need to agree to end this now.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Chris in California writes:

The U.S. government should stop putting the countries of which these pirates are citizens into debt, so that they can develop, and prosper. Too many countries in Africa are under the heavy financial hand of the IMF or World Bank's ridiculous and restrictive economic policies (influenced mainly by U.S. policies), known as structural adjustment lending. These global banking institutions are applying a blanket solution to varying forms of economies, and are ineffective at creating global economic growth. If these poor people had stability and peace through prosperity, they wouldn't turn to piracy.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Joe writes:

It's a rubber dingy for god sake! Blow a hole in it, save the captain and let the scum pirates become fish food.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Rosemary in New Jersey writes:

I'll agree with the folks calling for arming the merchant marine and training them (of course) in the use of weapons.

Slightly O/T but related, we need to continue and expand the program that provides the same kind of training for airline pilots.

This is a dangerous time. It is not the moment to unilaterally disarm in any way at any level! I think our Secretary of State knows that. I trust her to know the right thing to do.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Joe in California writes:

Maybe Afri-com, should have a Air Carrier just of the coast of the Pirates lands, and operate a number of air flights, really pushing the pirates back to port. and go from there.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Amy in Pennsylvania writes:

Sorry, Jason, but modern day privateers will only breed an Al-Qaedaesque speed-boat gang. A real solution will require united international action. Nations with superior naval capabilities will need to step up patrols. I like the reaction the U.S. warships got as they closed in...add some Blue Angel razzle-dazzle, they will pee their pants!

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Bill N. writes:

It is time for the privateers to make some money. Blackwater, Triple Canopy, Aegis International and Dyna Corp. have the necessary experience, investment of people and equipment to tackle this type of protection detail.

Throughout history, maritime law has been quite specific on how it dealt with piracy. I believe that after several "Harsh' examples have been set the cost may become to high for these "Thugs" to continue their business. Please notice I said "Thugs" and not Somali's. Piracy in this region is too lucrative at this point to give up. No negotiations with one entity will be possible in attempting to stop this type of action. The groups involved are to fragmented to be dealt with. The only recourse at this time is to make the act of piracy so unpalatable and so unprofitable that these groups will reconsider their action.This will not be a short term action and may take some time to take hold.

As an additional comment to the question, from my long term experience in the region and the relationships we have cultivated in Somaliland and Puntaland we can set an example by recognizing peaceful regional governments for their efforts to stabilize their regions and securing the safety of their people. I have seen that through very careful diplomatic efforts and the help of surrounding countries such as Djibouti that the way to stabilizing that area is possible, I am convinced that the US and the rest of the nations that have interest in this region would be wise to recognize the governments of Somalland and Puntaland.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Mary Lou in New York writes:

Our brightest need to take charge here and prepare a resolution that sets forth exactly the punishment that we expect to deliver to the pirates and/or their affiliates post haste. We need to deliver as we can and not dally trying to be the good guy. Good guys finish last!!

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Elizabeth in Massachusetts writes:

Who is funding these piracy operations? To what degree can the U.S. trace and eliminate their funding streams?

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Anthony in Florida writes:

Arm the ships so they can blow the pirates out of the water!!!!

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

Zharkov in U.S.A. writes:

Our federal government is negligent in failing to require all merchant ships carry sufficient arms to repel a pirate attack. Several people already posted that advice on this blog. The steps necessary to repel pirate attacks are obvious. It is astounding that this government simply will not do it.

Our ships are unarmed victims, sitting ducks, for any thugs with guns.

Now we have whole fleets of pirates running around stealing ships because we are totally disarmed. Gun control works -- in the criminal's favor.

What the world's merchant marine needs is:
1. Allow armed ship crews trained to repel pirate attacks;
2. Heavily armed decoy ships sent at random into pirate waters for the sole purpose of killing pirate attackers;
3. A coastal blocade across Somali ports to seize weapons aboard Somali vessels.

Just do what Merchant Marine captains suggest -- arm the ships with the kind of weapons that put fear into the minds of Somali pirates.

As private yachts face the same problem, all private yachts should be advised to carry firearms and any gun laws restricting transport and concealment of weapons should never be enforced against private yachts at sea.

If our government can ever get its priorities straight and allow Americans to defend themselves, this pirate problem would quickly end. We should be raiding pirate ships, rather than them raiding us.

Posted on Fri Apr 10, 2009

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