Somali pirates hijack Iranian fishing vessel off the coast of Somalia

Somali pirates have seized an Iranian fishing vessel named 'Azini' which was carrying 23 crew members. According to a statement released on Sunday by the Puntland maritime police, the vessel was hijacked last Thursday while sailing between the towns of Bandar Bayla and Hafun in northeastern Somalia. The Indian Ocean Maritime Security Center has issued a warning, suggesting that the pirates might launch further attacks on commercial vessels operating in the region and urging heightened vigilance. The resurgence of piracy off the coast of Somalia remains a significant concern for regional maritime security.