Yemen's civil conflict is exacerbating the threat of Somali piracy, according to the European Union's anti-piracy mission.
EUNavfor chief of staff colonel Richard Cantrill told Reuters that the hijackers are taking advantage of a reduced international naval presence and a greater availability of weapons.
"The regional instability caused by Yemen is important," he added.
Clashes between Houthi rebels and a Saudi-led coalition have spilled over into shipping lanes, while Somali attacks on vessels rise.
