Originally posted by Kandinsky
Is the US responsible for the Gulf of Aden and surrounding waters? Wouldn't that pose even more political issues? If all nations are equal, the US (as employer) would be more equal than others. .....

Valid points, as usual. I suppose I envision an "escort" type arrangement
within a pre-defined perimeter surrounding the ships as opposed to some sort of renegade navy.

More of a defensive posture as opposed to an offensive one. In the same manner the Coast Guard provides safe passage for Cruise ships in large ports. The shipping carriers would need to offset majority of costs. Otherwise those costs will ultimately fall on consumers who purchase the goods on these tankers / cargo ships. We will end up paying more.

Regards.....KK