Satellite Footprints Suggest Oil Slicks in Strait of Hormuz Amid US Ship Strikes
Recent analysis of satellite imagery suggests possible oil slicks in the waters surrounding the Strait of Hormuz following recent US strikes on tankers investigated for connections to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Copernicus data reveals brownish streaks on the ocean surface approximately 20 kilometers southeast of the coastline, indicating potential contamination.
Subsequent Copernicus imagery captured Thursday displays winding streaks of comparable dimensions, reinforcing the initial observation.
Independent researchers and experts, citing proximity to protected Ramsar wetland areas, conclude these markings are highly likely to be oil-related discoloration.
While satellite imagery provides strong visual clues, expert analysis emphasizes that corroborating the source of specific hydrocarbons requires additional verification methods.
Vincent Kerbaol, head of satellite maritime surveillance at CLS, confirms these represent “strong indications” of pollution released by vessels.
Similarly, conflict and environment researcher Leon Moreland deems the sightings “highly likely oil slicks,” citing distinct visual features and the absence of biological algae as key indicators.
US nonprofit SkyTruth concurs with these assessments regarding the nature of the stains.
If the materials consisted of volatile fuel types, the slicks could potentially dissipate within three to four days, contrasting with the persistence of crude oil.
Two of the identified flow paths commence precisely where the tankers Riesco and Kylo sent their final transmissions prior to their sinking on September 8 and 5.
This follows the U.S. command’s decision to destroy five vessels in the Gulf of Oman on Tuesday amid ballistic missile attacks launched by Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces against a U.S. naval vessel.
The 240-meter-long Riesco capsized after igniting, as shown in U.S. military public posts on X (formerly Twitter).
Moreland observes that the situation aligns with the proposed trajectory of the Riesco, making it a primary suspect.
The most recent tracking data indicates the vessel ceased transmission at 22:00 GMT on Tuesday, corresponding to one terminus of the current slick nearest the shoreline.
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