Which SEAL operation was a counterterrorism response to piracy?

The response to the Maersk Alabama hijacking is known for being a significant counterterrorism operation that addressed piracy, particularly because it involved the direct intervention of Navy SEALs to rescue Captain Richard Phillips, who was taken hostage by Somali pirates.

This operation highlighted the ongoing threat of piracy off the coast of Somalia and demonstrated the U.S. military's capability and commitment to countering such acts of maritime terrorism. The successful resolution of the Maersk Alabama incident underscored the effectiveness of special operations forces in high-stakes hostage rescue situations, showcasing their training and ability to adapt in crisis environments.

In contrast, other operations listed do not specifically focus on counterterrorism in the context of piracy. Operation RESTORE HOPE was primarily a humanitarian mission aimed at providing aid during the Somali famine. Operation PERSISTENT HOUND refers to maritime security operations but lacks the direct engagement aspect seen in the Maersk Alabama case. Operation PHANTOM FURY was focused on urban combat in Iraq and was not related to piracy or maritime counterterrorism. Hence, the choice associated with the Maersk Alabama hijacking is the most accurate representation of a SEAL operation targeting the issue of piracy.