- Multiple beaches across the UAE , including in Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah, have been temporarily closed due to a widening oil spill .
- Satellite images from the European Union's Copernicus indicate the slick is expanding towards the shore from a damaged tanker.
- Experts believe the leak originated from the Gem No.2, a vessel reportedly struck by an unidentified projectile in September.
- Environmental scientists have expressed concern over the threat posed to more than 500 marine species in the Gulf, including dolphins and sea turtles.
- The incident occurs amid a surge in attacks on commercial shipping navigating vital routes near the Strait of Hormuz .
IN FULL
Satellite images show huge oil spill from damaged tanker that triggered beach closures across UAE