Satellite images show a large oil slick spreading from the Caroline Bezengi, a sanctioned tanker leaking Russian crude oil off the coast of Oman.
The spill threatens a designated marine protected area in the Dhofar Governorate. Because the vessel is grounded and sinking, the leak risks long-term ecological damage to sensitive coastal waters.
Images captured on July 13, 2026 [6], show the vessel becoming increasingly submerged. The resulting slick covers approximately 390 sq km [3] and was located about seven km offshore [4]. Experts project the slick could advance 121 km within a 48-hour window [5].
The Caroline Bezengi was transporting a massive cargo of Russian crude oil at the time of the incident. Reports on the exact volume vary, with some sources stating the ship carried over 800,000 barrels [1], while others indicate it held nearly one million barrels [2].
The vessel's status as a sanctioned tanker adds a layer of geopolitical complexity to the environmental crisis. The grounded ship continues to sink, which may complicate salvage efforts and containment of the leaking cargo.
Oman is currently tracking the movement of the slick to mitigate the impact on its coastline. The proximity of the leak to the shore increases the likelihood of oil reaching the beaches of the Dhofar region.
“The resulting slick covers approximately 390 sq km”
This incident highlights the environmental risks associated with 'shadow fleet' operations, where sanctioned vessels often operate with less oversight or lower safety standards. The intersection of a maritime disaster and international sanctions may delay coordinated international response efforts, leaving the Dhofar Governorate's marine biodiversity vulnerable to a significant crude oil spill.
