Mogadishu, 30 September, 2026 (Nosheen): Eight Egyptian nationals who had been held captive by Somali pirates for several months have been released and safely returned to Egypt, according to the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The released individuals were members of the crew of a commercial vessel and were reportedly taken hostage in May this year after pirates intercepted the ship near the coast of Puntland, Somalia, on May 2. Egyptian authorities said continuous contacts were maintained with Somali and Yemeni officials to secure the hostages’ release, with diplomatic efforts eventually resulting in the safe recovery of all eight Egyptians. Following their release, the crew members returned to Egypt, where their families and authorities welcomed their safe arrival after months in captivity. Piracy in Somali coastal waters has long posed a major challenge to international shipping, although such incidents have declined in recent years due to international maritime operations. However, concerns remain amid security challenges and increased risks along commercial shipping routes in the region. Egyptian authorities described cooperation with Somali and Yemeni sides as important in securing the release of the eight nationals. Meanwhile, it was reported that the fuel tanker MT Honor 25 was also hijacked on April 21, with most of its crew members being Pakistani nationals. According to the information provided, five crew members were killed during an operation by Somali security forces, including three Pakistanis, one Indian and one Myanmar national, while three other Pakistanis and one Indian crew member were injured.