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Satellite images reveal oil leaking from a sanctioned tanker near Oman
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Satellite images reveal crude oil leaking from the sanctioned tanker Caroline Bezengi, grounded off the coast of Oman near a marine protected area, with an oil sheen covering approximately 20 square kilometers and oil slicks on Dhofar’s Qibliyah Island.
- The leak has been gradual but appears to be increasing, raising concerns about the tanker breaking apart amid rough seas and strong monsoon winds, which could cause a larger environmental disaster.
- The Caroline Bezengi, carrying over 800,000 barrels of crude oil, is sanctioned by the UK, EU, Canada, and Switzerland for transporting Russian oil linked to destabilizing Ukraine, and has been grounded since June following a reported onboard explosion.
- Environmental groups warn of significant damage to the Arabian Sea reserve’s sensitive marine ecosystem, home to endangered species, with ongoing leaks threatening further pollution and harm.
- The Omani government ordered the vessel's removal by July 23, but it remains unclear if the owners have complied or responded to the directive.
