They aren't the Islamic extremist flavor of terrorist. They aren't going out of their way to try to terrorize our nation. They are terrorizing the waters off their coast. And I would call certain kidnappers terrorists. Mexican kidnappers for instance are a type of domestic terrorist in Mexico.

Mono: I wouldn't call pirates terrorists, but despite their different motives, they do share a very important feature: the way they operate essentially removes them from the protection of their home country.

I don't see any connection to pirates and terrorists. The pirates are doing this for financial gain, I would liken them to violent thieves more than anything else. It is a good day for them when they don't kill anyone and make a boat load (no pun intended) of money. It is a good day for a terrorist when they kill people and instil terror (thus the name...). Absolutely opposite motives.

I guarantee you that if everyone in Somalia had adequate food/shelter/clothing, this problem would be almost wiped out. I'm not saying it's our responsibility to provide these items, but that it would indeed solve the problem.

Which is why I find it highly bothersome when those pirates are hijacking RELIEF SUPPLIES DESTINED FOR SOMALIA!

Which in every case (so far) has still gotten to its destination.

Actually, if those relief supplies were actually taken by the pirates, they would have a greater chance of actually being distributed to the citizenry. Just sayin'.

after the ransom was paid

ok... so your point is?

fuck it. I give up