Oil spill washes up on UAE beaches after tanker strike
Summary
An oil spill from a tanker damaged near the Strait of Hormuz is spreading along the coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The spill started after the tanker, Gem No.2, was hit about two weeks ago and is now affecting beaches and protected natural areas in the UAE.Key Facts
- The oil spill began after the tanker Gem No.2 was struck near the Strait of Hormuz on October 9-10.
- Satellite images show the oil slick has spread over 35 kilometers (22 miles) along the UAE coastline by October 25.
- UAE beaches near the city of Umm Al Quwain have been closed to limit environmental damage.
- The UAE government started cleanup and containment efforts immediately after the spill was detected.
- The spill threatens sensitive wildlife areas like the islands of Siniyah and Khor Al Beidah, which house coral reefs, seagrasses, and endangered species such as green turtles and the critically endangered Halavi guitarfish.
- Oil spills can kill marine animals by trapping them, coating their bodies, or harming their breathing organs and can damage their ability to reproduce over time.
- The tanker was hit during a rise in attacks on vessels near the Strait, linked to tensions between Iran and the US.
- All 22 crew members on the tanker were rescued safely.
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