Somali piracy has resurged sharply in 2026, with multiple successful hijackings of commercial and fishing vessels since April concentrated in the Gulf of Aden, off Puntland, and in the western Indian Ocean. Pirate action groups have used captured dhows and smaller craft as motherships to extend reach, including the recent seizure of the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Azini with 23 aboard, which maritime authorities warn could support further attacks on shipping lanes. Several vessels remain held with crews, though some rescues by Puntland forces have occurred amid reports of crew fatalities in at least one case. Reduced naval patrols tied to Middle East operations have contributed to the shift, prompting elevated security alerts and vigilance from operators. EUNAVFOR Atalanta and regional forces continue monitoring, with ongoing risks from organized networks.