It is a scenario right out of Alfred Thayer Mahan. Adm. Mahan, the seminal naval geostrategist wrote The Influence of Sea Power Upon History. Its primary thesis was that for a country to grow, the "Sea Lanes of Communication" (SLOCs) must be controlled. Once again, we see his prescience. A piracy crisis in the oceans around the Horn of Africa rivets the world, interrupts trade and puts merchant crews at risk.

Merchant vessels are being hijacked, crews ransomed and cargos detained. The frequency of piracy has increased dramatically. Why? Because the collective will of our maritime nations has let it happen. "It's time for us to step in and put an end to this crisis; it is a crisis, wake up," said Shane Murphy, first mate of the recently seized Maersk Alabama upon reaching port in...