A tanker under sanctions, loaded with crude oil, is leaking in protected waters off the coast of Oman, raising alarm as regional monsoon conditions threaten to exacerbate the spill.
Satellite Monitoring Insights
Recent satellite images reveal an oil sheen spread over about 20 square kilometers near Dhofar’s Qibliyah Island. Crude oil patches have reached the shoreline in the protected Hallaniyat Islands. Experts warn that worsening leaks could lead to bigger spills in rough weather conditions.
“Imagery shows an increase in oil coming out, with the sheen’s size growing,” said Wim Zwijnenburg, an environmental expert with PAX.
Monsoon Season Risks
Satellite images, dated July 31, 2026, depict crude oil leaking from the Caroline Bezengi tanker, grounded off Oman’s coast. Strong winds and rough seas during the region’s annual monsoon could further damage the vessel.
The tanker, flagged by Cameroon, has been stranded since June following an onboard explosion report. Sources suggest trouble began on June 8 near Yemen’s Mukalla port, with a suspected blast occurring.
Tanker Background
The Caroline Bezengi, carrying over 800,000 barrels of crude, had loaded Russian oil at Novorossiysk. It’s part of Russia’s “shadow fleet” used to bypass sanctions after the Ukraine invasion. The vessel faces sanctions from the UK, EU, Canada, and Switzerland. Imagery indicates hull breaches and vessel listing, adding risk of breaking apart.
Environmental Concerns
The spill endangers a protected marine reserve in the Arabian Sea, home to rare wildlife like endangered petrels. Greenpeace Germany highlighted the pollution threat to coastlines and ecosystems.
“With oil leaking and the tanker in a tough spot, there’s a serious risk of a larger disaster with devastating coastal and marine impacts,” warned Nina Noelle of Greenpeace Germany.
Authority Responses
The U.N.’s International Maritime Organization is closely monitoring the situation, assessing environmental dangers. Oman’s Ministry ordered the vessel’s removal by July 23; the deadline’s status and owner responses remain unclear.