Oman Gulf oil spill swells into potential worst in years amid sanctions and war

A grounded tanker off Oman, the Caroline Bezengi, has released a widening oil slick that, by August, may cover up to thousands of square kilometers and threaten the mainland—potentially one of the world’s largest spills in years. Salvage is hampered by monsoon conditions, sanctions, and the oil’s treatment as an act of war, with the vessel reportedly uninsured by Western insurers. Estimates suggest 40–50 million gallons may be released, raising comparisons to the Exxon Valdez while highlighting risks to wildlife, reefs, and coastal areas as response efforts struggle to get underway.