The United States strongly condemns the murder of four U.S. citizens, whose yacht, the QUEST, was seized by pirates off the coast of Oman. This deplorable act firmly underscores the need for continued international progress toward confronting the shared security challenge posed by piracy in the waters off the Horn of Africa.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the victims’ families at this time. We will honor their memory by continuing to strengthen international partnerships in order to bring these maritime criminals to justice.

The United States encourages those members of the international community concerned about stability in Somalia and piracy to contribute to AMISOM by providing material, financial, and logistical support. The United States also encourages additional African contributions to the AMISOM peacekeeping force.