In brief
On October 9 the Panama‑flagged tanker Gem No.2 was struck near the Strait of Hormuz, sparking a fire and a massive oil leak that has now traveled 35 km along the UAE coast. Satellite images and videos from beachgoers show a dark plume bathing the waters and blackened sand along Umm Al Quwain’s shoreline. UAE authorities have closed some beaches and begun containment work, but scientists warn that the spill could reach the biodiverse Siniyah and Khor Al Beidah islands, endangering marine life. With 22 crew rescued, the incident highlights the growing risk of Gulf attacks on both shipping and the fragile regional environment.
On Oct 9 the Panama‑flagged tanker Gem No.2 was hit near the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire and an oil leak that has stretched 35 km along the UAE coast.
Satellite images show a dark slick covering the sea, while videos posted by locals depict blackened sand washing up on Umm Al Quwain’s beach.
UAE authorities have closed some beaches and begun containment work, yet scientists warn the spill could reach the biodiverse Siniyah and Khor Al Beidah islands, threatening marine life.
With 22 crew members rescued, the incident underscores the growing risk of maritime attacks in the Gulf and their serious environmental impact.
