The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed an oil spill affecting beaches in Umm Al Quwain, prompting temporary coastal closures and cleanup operations as maritime security concerns continue in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz.

The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment said the spill had caused strong fuel odors reported in several northern emirates. Authorities stated that the odors posed no health risk to residents but advised fishermen and other sea users to avoid affected areas. Environmental teams have begun containment, cleanup and monitoring operations to assess potential damage to coastal and marine ecosystems.

Maritime intelligence reports suggest the spill may be linked to the Panama-flagged oil tanker GEM NO. 2, which was struck by a projectile on October 9. However, UAE authorities have not officially identified the source. Meanwhile, Iran has claimed responsibility for additional attacks on vessels involved in ship-to-ship oil transfers and reported that several ships were disabled by naval mines. These claims have not been independently verified.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also reported a separate tanker attack approximately seven nautical miles northeast of Limah, Oman, on October 22. The vessel was reportedly able to continue its voyage. According to UKMTO, 119 vessels have reported damage in maritime security incidents during 2026, while 77 crew members have been injured or killed. The continuing incidents highlight the security and environmental risks facing commercial shipping in the region.