Crude oil is leaking from a sanctioned tanker that has run aground off the coast of Oman, with satellite imagery showing the slick spreading in recent days.
The vessel, which is subject to sanctions by Canada, the UK, and the EU, is located close to a marine protected area, raising environmental concerns alongside the immediate shipping disruption.
The incident adds another layer of risk to the Strait of Hormuz region, where shipping security has already been strained.
Reports indicate that an oil tanker recently exploded in the strait after striking a naval mine, according to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps-linked Tasnim news agency.
These events underscore the persistent volatility in one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints.
Market participants are monitoring the situation for potential impacts on freight rates and energy flows.