It’s about time to keelhaul some pirates. Or kill them.
Whatever works best.
Three warships from NATO’s standing seven-vessel maritime response force are stationed off the African coast to provide protection for UN freighters bringing food aid to Somalia.
The Security Council voted earlier this month to crack down on sea piracy – and authorize force.
Two weeks ago, NATO followed up with an authorization to provide protection to UN-chartered ships, and to deter piracy in general. Hence the flotilla.
Sea piracy along the Somali coast has been building in recent years: This year has seen 70 ships attacked and 30 hijacked.
Perhaps the most brazen came last month, when 30 Somali marauders seized the MV Faina, a Ukrainian tanker carrying 33 Russian-built tanks, rifles, ammo and other materiel to Sudan. The pirates continue to hold it and its 18-man crew for a reported $20 million ransom.
Other pirate groups are holding some 10 other vessels captive.
As the NATO ships – from Italy, Greece and Britain – enter the region, six US warships are also on station, and a Russian warship is negotiating with the Somali government for permission to use force in Somali waters. If granted, the Russian ship will work to regain control of the Faina.
Meanwhile, NATO commanders are debating rules of engagement for dealing with the pirates – announcing that action against them must be “in compliance with relevant international and national law.”
The most effective way to deal with pirates has historically involved nooses and yardarms. Applying that principle to today’s situation shouldn’t be difficult, and doubtless would be productive.
No negotiations.
No quarter.
No problem.