EU Extends Anti-Piracy Mission as Somali Threats Resurface

Following the resurgence of Somali piracy after nearly six years of inactivity, the European Union has announced a two-year extension of Operation Atalanta, its naval mission off the Horn of Africa. The operation will now continue until the end of February 2027.

Operation Atalanta has called on ships navigating near the Somali coast to stay on high alert due to the growing threat of piracy in the region.

One notable incident involves a Chinese fishing vessel with 18 crew members that has been held by suspected pirates since late November. Reports indicate that the pirates recently rejected a $300,000 ransom offer for the vessel's release.