Salvage work begins on tanker leaking oil off Oman, risk firm says
A salvage operation is underway off the coast of Oman to stabilize the oil tanker Caroline Bezengi, which has been leaking crude since an unidentified explosion in June. The risk management company Ambrey is coordinating the effort with Omani authorities and international partners, deploying salvage vessels, aircraft, and specialist personnel. Environmental NGO Greenpeace reports the oil spill has rapidly expanded to approximately 1,300 square kilometers, threatening regional ecosystems, including a marine reserve. The tanker, suspected of being part of Russia's shadow fleet, has flown flags of multiple nations, and its owner and insurer remain unclear. The International Maritime Organization is closely monitoring the situation, while the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds will not be involved due to a likely act of war exclusion. Adverse weather from the monsoon season is complicating the challenging salvage operation.