Maritime piracy refers to criminal acts committed at sea, including robbery, hijacking, and hostage-taking. Pirates typically target commercial ships, fishing vessels, and yachts to steal cargo or demand ransom. This illegal activity poses significant risks to international shipping and trade. Piracy has been a concern for centuries, with famous historical figures like Blackbeard and Barbary pirates gaining notoriety. Today, regions such as the Gulf of Aden and the Somali coast are known hotspots for piracy, prompting international naval patrols and cooperation among nations to combat these threats and ensure maritime safety.