New Oil Slick Detected Near Iran’s Kharg Island, Sparking Environmental Concerns
A second suspected oil slick has been spotted close to Iran’s Kharg Island, a major oil export hub. This news comes from the maritime intelligence company Windward AI and raises alarms about potential environmental dangers as another larger spill from earlier this month continues to spread toward Saudi Arabian waters.
U.N. officials expressed worries on Sunday regarding the risk of oil spills in this area, highlighting the potential for an environmental disaster amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Windward noted that the new slick was detected at around 11 a.m. local time, covering an area estimated to be between 12 to 20 square kilometers.
While Iranian officials blame foreign ships, maritime experts suggest that the primary spill, which is massive at tens of thousands of barrels and spans about 65 square kilometers, is more likely due to aging infrastructure or pipeline failures rather than outside interference.
Dr. Kaveh Madani, a U.N. expert, emphasized the need for close monitoring. He stated, “If this slick expands, we should be very concerned about potential leaks from old infrastructure.” The slick is currently moving southwest from the island, and its path could pose risks to populated areas.
Madani highlighted that because the Persian Gulf has slow water circulation, pollutants can linger for a long time, negatively impacting coastal communities, marine life, and industries such as fishing and desalination.
The larger slick was first identified on May 8 and has consistently drifted west of Kharg Island. It is believed to be crude oil rather than bunker fuel, and its origins are suspected to be from infrastructure issues or failed transfers between ships.
In related news, the United States has increased its naval presence in the Strait of Hormuz to limit Iranian oil exports. The closure of this crucial waterway has led to congestion among tankers, raising the likelihood of accidental spills.
Local Iranian officials claimed the slick was generated by oil residue and ballast water from European vessels, calling it a “psychological operation” by adversaries. Meanwhile, Iran’s Oil Terminals Company has denied any leak near Kharg Island, asserting that inspections found no evidence of spills from storage tanks or nearby ships.
As the situation develops, the impact on the environment and regional stability remains a major concern.
