Beijing’s new ‘Ice Silk Road’ cuts through a melting Arctic, and could prompt new tensions with the US, analysts say.
![The Omani Environment Authority stated that it is continuing its monitoring, follow-up, and response efforts regarding the oil pollution resulting from the grounded vessel near Al Qibliya Island in the Dhofar Governorate. [Screenshot / Omani Environment Authority]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/image-1786817399.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
Environmental NGO Greenpeace warns that spill has rapidly expanded to 1,300 square kilometres, threatening ecosystems.
An oil slick from the tanker the Caroline Bezengi has reached Oman’s coastline weeks after the vessel ran aground.
No injuries were reported in the attack, which the UAE called ‘piracy’ and a threat to global energy security.
Iran asserts full control over the Strait of Hormuz, challenging US claims of dominance in the strategic waterway.
Oil has been spilling from the Caroline Bezengi, a tanker that has been leaking crude since running aground off Oman.
The US and Iran continue their standoff in the Strait of Hormuz as mediators try to coax talks.
A Singapore-flagged container ship crashed into a bank of the Hooghly River in eastern India.
Iran says Hormuz stays closed until US meets its demands and changes its ‘behaviour’ as global energy prices rise.
Deaths on Egyptian-owned Tihamah mark first shipping deaths linked to Houthis since the US-Israel war on Iran began.
Philippines sailors say they will work despite wartime risks
![Ships are seen anchored in the Strait of Hormuz on August 10, as the US and Iran cotninue to enforce their respective blockades on the key shipping lane. [Ali Saeedi/Getty Images]](/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/getty_6a7e5499b4-1786664089.jpg?resize=770%2C513&quality=80)
