“I am deeply concerned by the increasing number and aggressiveness of piracy attacks off the coast of Somalia in the Gulf of Aden. I am pleased that NATO has dispatched a new multinational force to patrol these seas and that the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet is supporting these operations. The international community should strengthen this force and strengthen the international legal framework to bring these pirates to justice. We can also look to the successful efforts to deter piracy in Southeast Asia as we address this serious problem, which not only threatens one of the world’s most important trade routes, but also risks fueling regional conflict.

“With more than a thousand miles of coastline along the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, however, increased maritime patrolling can only do so much. Until stability, the rule of law and effective governance are established, Somalia will remain a safe haven for these pirates. Moreover, until a functioning economy can be established, piracy will remain the most lucrative business in the region. I have long called on the international community to bring forth the necessary resources and attention to stabilize Somalia and rebuild its institutions. With insurgent militias advancing upon Mogadishu and the transitional government on the brink of collapse, it is clear that the international community’s half-hearted strategy hasn’t worked. I am confident the Obama Administration understands the importance of this task and will lead a new approach to Somalia.”

Senator Feingold is the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on African Affairs.