Satellite images show potential oil spill near Kharg Island

Satellite data from the European Union's Copernicus program, specifically Sentinel-1, 2, and 3, detected a potential oil slick covering approximately 45 to 50 square kilometers near Iran's Kharg Island between May 6 and May 8, 2026. Experts from the Conflict and Environment Observatory and Data Desk estimate the slick, which appeared as a grey and white mass, likely contains over 3,000 barrels of oil. While international reports suggest the spill is drifting south toward Saudi Arabian waters, Iranian authorities have officially denied these reports, stating there is no environmental emergency in the area. The origin and cause of the spill remain unknown, though it has occurred during a period of heightened conflict between Iran and a U.S.-led coalition that began 70 days ago. Kharg Island serves as the terminal for 90% of Iran's oil exports, which have been severely disrupted by an ongoing naval blockade and military hostilities. Hundreds of commercial vessels remain trapped in the Gulf due to the overlapping blockades. No further active spills were observed in images captured on May 8.