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Satellite Images Show Oil Slick Off Iran's Kharg Island: Report
Satellite images appeared to show an oil slick spreading off Iran's Kharg Island, a major export terminal. The cause is not yet clear, and observers say the slick covers more than 20 square miles as of May 7, 2026, amid broader tensions in the region.
Why It Matters
Kharg Island houses Iran's largest oil terminal, and the slick's spread occurs as Iran delays strait traffic and the U.S. imposes port restrictions, potentially impacting oil exports and regional dynamics.
Timeline
3 Events
Satellite-image report on Kharg Island spill published
May 9, 2026
A report based on satellite imagery described an oil slick spreading off the coast of Iran's Kharg Island. The article noted that the cause was not immediately clear, Orbital EOS said the spill exceeded 20 square miles as of May 7, 2026, and the Conflict and Environment Observatory stated the original source remained unclear while the slick appeared to be drifting south.
Oil slick off Kharg Island measured at over 20 square miles
May 7, 2026
Orbital EOS, which monitors oil spills, told The New York Times that the spill appeared to cover more than 20 square miles (52 square kilometers) off Iran's Kharg Island as of Thursday.
Conflict escalates as Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz at start of conflict with U.S. and Israel
February 28, 2026
Iran largely closed the Strait of Hormuz at the start of its conflict with the United States and Israel on February 28, 2026. The United States has since imposed a blockade of Iranian ports, affecting tanker movements in the area.