Environmental Agencies Warn of Major Oil Spill in Arabian Sea

An oil spill in the Arabian Sea is rapidly expanding and is being described by agencies as one of the worst incidents in years. The spill originated from the tanker Caroline Bezengi, which was carrying approximately 800,000 barrels of Russian crude oil when it ran aground in June near Oman's Churiya-Muriya Islands. These islands are part of a marine protected area home to coral reefs, humpback whales, and endangered turtles.

Satellite imagery indicates a drastic increase in the size of the slick. While Oman previously reported the spill covered nearly 400 square kilometers and Greenpeace estimated 600 square kilometers in early August, John Amos of Sky Truth now estimates the area exceeds 2,000 square kilometers. The United Nations shipping agency has stated that the oil has reached the mainland and emergency plans are in effect. Amos warned that wind and waves could cause the ship to break apart further, potentially releasing the entire cargo.

The Caroline Bezengi departed from the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk in April. Shipping sources report an explosion occurred on board, though no party has claimed responsibility for an attack. The IOPC Funds, an intergovernmental organization for tanker compensation, stated they will not cover cleanup costs because the incident is being treated as an act of war rather than a simple accident. Additionally, the 25 year old tanker is not insured by any recognized western provider.