Oman battles extensive oil spill from stranded tanker

Oman is battling an extensive oil spill threatening a protected marine area off its southern coast. The spill, originating from the tanker Caroline Bezengi, covers an estimated 400 square kilometers and is located within 7 kilometers of the shore, according to the Oman Environment Authority.

The tanker has been stranded for over a month near Oman's al-Qibliyyah Island after an explosion caused water to enter its compartments. Ship-tracking data indicates the vessel loaded in Russia in April and passed through the Suez Canal. Environmental group Greenpeace estimates the slick at around 600 square kilometers, warning of an "environmental disaster."

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Environmental disaster

The spill is concentrated around the Hallaniyat archipelago, a marine reserve established to protect sensitive ecosystems, including rare sea turtles. Omani authorities are conducting aerial surveillance and deploying divers, with plans to transfer the tanker's oil cargo to mitigate risks. The cause of the spill remains unidentified.

The Caroline Bezengi is suspected to be part of Russia's "shadow fleet," used to bypass Western sanctions on oil exports. These aging vessels have raised concerns over maintenance, insurance, and safety standards. Tankers have been increasingly targeted in the Gulf region.

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to reduce the risks arising from the incident, ensure navigational safety and protect the marine environment