More Piracy Near Somalia

[PhilR]

Information Dissemination has a great post that comments on a recent press conference with VADM Gortney, Cdr US Fifth Fleet and NAVCENT. http://http://informationdisseminati...us-report.html

The post further links to the transcript itself. I recommend reading for good insight on the development of the US Campaign Plan, which was heavy on engagement to get international participation, and pursuit of legal authorities, to eventually support more effective operations.
Gortney is clear that the real solution is ashore and all that can be accomplished at sea is disruption and deterrence. He also provides a good account of the tactical challenges of identifying and dealing with the pirates at sea.

[wm]

DoD News release "adds to the weapons to combat piracy"

WASHINGTON, Jan. 29, 2009 – The Kenyan government has agreed to try pirates captured by the U.S. military, a senior Defense Department official said here today.
The agreement came about earlier this month through a memorandum of understanding signed by U.S. State Department and Kenyan government officials, spokesman Bryan Whitman told Pentagon reporters. Britain also has a similar agreement with Kenya.

I wonder what force this has in international law if the pirates are captured outside Kenyan territorial waters and/or are preying on ships with other than Kenyan registry and have no passengers/crews that are Kenyan citizens? More fun for international legal beagles to be sure.