Oil spill from stricken tanker reaches Oman and Iran coasts

A major oil spill from the stricken tanker Caroline Bezengi has reached the coasts of both Oman and Iran, raising fears of a significant ecological disaster in the Arabian Sea. The vessel, carrying around 800,000 barrels of Russian oil and subject to international sanctions, ran aground off Oman's Hallaniyat Islands in June after an explosion of undetermined cause. Source: CNN Source: infobae

The spill

The spill has expanded rapidly, covering an estimated 1,300 square kilometers (about 500 square miles), according to environmental group Greenpeace, which analyzed satellite imagery. Source: CNN The slick has contaminated at least 40 kilometers of Oman's coastline at Ras Madrakah, and Iranian authorities report pollution at three locations on their southern coast, including Qeshm and Hengam islands. Source: infobae The spill threatens a marine protected area, home to coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and the rare Arabian Sea humpback whale. Source: CNN

Response

International salvage efforts are underway, led by British maritime security firm Ambrey, which has deployed over 100 tonnes of equipment, aircraft, and vessels. Source: infobae However, operations are hampered by the annual Khareef monsoon, which creates extremely difficult sea conditions. Source: infobae Omani authorities have advised citizens to avoid fishing in affected areas and will test seafood for contaminants. Source: CNN

Disagreement

Sources differ on the spill's size: Greenpeace estimates 1,300 square kilometers, while Omani authorities have not confirmed the extent. Source: CNN The cause of the initial explosion also remains disputed; some security observers report an explosion, but the exact nature is unconfirmed. Source: CNN