Significant Oil Spill Detected Near Iran's Kharg Island

A significant oil spill has been detected near Kharg Island, a key site for Iran's oil exports. The spill, monitored by Orbital EOS, has expanded to over 52 square kilometers and is moving towards Saudi Arabian waters. This environmental incident coincides with ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran, with President Trump awaiting a response from Tehran. As discussions continue, Trump hinted at the potential revival of a maritime operation to assist ships in the region. The situation remains fluid, with implications for both environmental safety and international relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 9, 2026, 10:54 IST

Oil Spill Near Kharg Island

A substantial oil slick has been identified close to Kharg Island, a crucial hub for Iran's oil exports located in the Gulf, just north of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. According to Orbital EOS, an organization that tracks oil spills, the slick has already expanded to cover over 52 square kilometers (20 square miles). Images taken between May 6 and May 8 show the spill spreading southward towards the waters of Saudi Arabia, although the origin of the spill remains unknown.

This incident emerges as the United States awaits a response from Iran regarding a proposal aimed at resolving ongoing conflicts. President Donald Trump indicated that his administration anticipated a reply from Tehran by Friday night. "We’ll hear from them supposedly tonight," Trump mentioned during an interview. When asked if he thought Iran was delaying negotiations, he expressed uncertainty, stating, "We’ll find out soon enough." As of Saturday morning, there was no confirmation on whether Iran had replied to the US.

Trump also suggested the possibility of reinstating a previously halted operation to assist ships navigating the waterway, which he paused earlier in the week due to perceived progress in talks with Iran. He referred to this renewed initiative as "Project Freedom plus," explaining that it would build upon the original Project Freedom. Speaking to reporters at the White House before heading to a dinner at his golf course in Sterling, Virginia, Trump noted, "I might go back to Project Freedom if a deal is not reached, but it would be 'Project Freedom plus,' meaning it would include additional measures." He emphasized that alternative strategies would be considered if negotiations do not conclude successfully.