Israel blames Iran for Mediterranean oil spill

The Israeli government has not explained some key details surrounding the incident and Iran has yet to comment. The spill blackened the shoreline in Israel and Lebanon last month.
HADERA, ISRAEL - FEBRUARY 22: An aerial view over Israel's coast line after an oil spill on February 22, 2021 in Hadera, Israel. Tar started washing up on the country's beaches last week, leading its interior minister to advise people to stay away from beaches. Authorities suspect the spill was caused by a leak from an offshore ship. (Photo by Amir Levy/Getty Images)
An aerial view over Israel's coast line after an oil spill in Hadera, Israel, Feb. 22, 2021. - Amir Levy/Getty Images
Al Monitor: The Pulse of the Middle East
Al-Monitor Staff

Israel has blamed the recent oil spill in the eastern Mediterranean on Iran, but many details are still unclear.

Beaches in Israel and Lebanon turned black last month following a spill in the sea. On Wednesday, Israel’s Environmental Protection Minister Gila Gamliel said the spill emanated from a ship carrying pirated cargo from Iran to Syria, Reuters reported.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.

Videos

See more