UAE Confirms Approaching Oil Spill as Iran Claims Continued Attacks

The UAE confirmed earlier reports of a large and spreading oil spill along the Persian Gulf side of the Khor Al Beidah peninsula while Iran continues to claim tanker strikes as it enforces rules for the Strait of Hormuz. It comes as there appears to be a continuing escalation, or propaganda effort, which is being linked to the Israeli legislative elections on October 27 and the U.S. midterm election on November 3.

The slick had first been spotted earlier in the week, likely coming from one of the tankers Iran struck at the beginning of the month. The UAE’s Ministry of Climate Change and Environment was forced to acknowledge the slick as it came ashore along much of the peninsula, and there were widespread reports of a strong odor. The ministry said the odors pose no health risk, but it has ordered the Umm Al Quwain beaches closed. It also warned fishermen to stay away from the affected areas.

It said the coastal areas would remain closed until technical teams complete an assessment. Furthermore, it said efforts were also underway for containment, cordoning, cleanup, and remediation.

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →