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UAE emirate Ras Al Khaimah shuts all its beaches as an oil spill from an Iran-struck tanker spreads

UAE emirate Ras Al Khaimah shuts all its beaches as an oil spill from an Iran-struck tanker spreads

Satellite images show the slick now stretches over 22 miles from the Panama-flagged Gem No 2. The tanker was hit during a record wave of Iranian strikes on shipping on October 9 and 10. Neighbouring Umm Al Quwain, around 35 miles from Dubai, had already closed its tourist beaches. Residents report a powerful oily stench, and images show the sea turned completely black.

Iran's strikes were an attempt to tighten the regime's grip on the Strait of Hormuz.

Footage recorded aboard Gem No 2 shows crew members donning life jackets while thick black smoke rises above the vessel.

The UAE environment ministry insists the odour poses no health risk to residents.

MoreThe SunBeaches forced to shut after attack on tanker near Strait of Hormuz sparks massive oil spill off UAE holiday resortReutersUAE's Ras Al Khaimah shuts all beaches as neighbours grapple with oil spillReutersOil spill off UAE coast prompts beach closures, cleanup effortThe Irish SunMassive oil spill washes up on UAE holiday resort after tanker strike near Strait of Hormuz forcing beaches to shut - The Irish Sun
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