PMPF is the current officeholder facing maritime security challenges as piracy surges near Somalia, prompting a naval response and crew rescues.
Iranian-crewed fishing vessel Azini has been hijacked off northeastern Somalia. Twelve pirates seized the ship, with two Somali guards outnumbered. EU/NATO maritime bodies warn ships to stay vigilant as authorities investigate and discuss a possible reuse of Azini as a mothership. The incident follows a renewed spike in Somali piracy and disruptions to regional oil routes.
The Azini has been liberated after a multi-hour operation off Somalia. Indian forces disarmed 12 pirates, released 20 crew members, and secured the vessel with MARCOS support. The rescue underscores renewed piracy risks in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, prompting higher costs for shipping.