Iran Denies Oil Leak Near Kharg Island Despite Satellite Imagery
Iran has officially denied reports of a significant oil leak near Kharg Island, its primary oil export hub in the Gulf, following the release of satellite imagery suggesting a large slick. The Iran Oil Terminals Company stated that comprehensive inspections of storage tanks, pipelines, and tankers revealed no evidence of leakage. Furthermore, the Marine Emergency Mutual Aid Centre (MEMAC) reported no signs of pollution in the area. Conversely, satellite data from Copernicus Sentinel and analysis by Orbital EOS indicated a suspected spill covering over 20 square miles, potentially spreading toward Saudi waters. This incident occurs amidst heightened tensions, with US forces maintaining a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and imposing strict sanctions on Tehran. US officials have warned that the congested maritime traffic and ongoing hostilities could lead to an environmental catastrophe. While The New York Times initially reported the suspected spill citing satellite images, Iranian authorities maintain that field inspections and laboratory tests found not even the smallest trace of oil leakage, attributing the situation to false reports amid economic pressure.
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