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The Caroline Bezengi tanker is grounded off the coast of Oman, causing a major oil spill that has reached the mainland.

The Caroline Bezengi, a sanctioned Russian tanker, is currently grounded off the coast of Oman after an unexplained explosion in June. The vessel, part of Russia's 'shadow fleet,' was carrying nearly 1 million barrels of oil when it began leaking crude into the Arabian Sea. The spill has expanded rapidly, covering over 600 square kilometers and reaching the mainland coast of Ras Madrakah, approximately 200 kilometers from the tanker's location. Omani authorities are coordinating an international salvage operation led by the British maritime security company Ambrey. The operation is being hampered by the monsoon season's adverse weather conditions. Because the vessel lacks a clear owner or verified insurer, the Omani government is responsible for the majority of the cleanup costs. Experts note that the spill threatens a marine protected area home to rare humpback whales and endangered turtles. The International Maritime Organization is closely monitoring the situation as efforts continue to work around the clock to stabilize the cargo and mitigate environmental damage.

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