Oil expert warns of the potential consequences of a spill from a Russian tanker in Libyan waters.

Tripoli – March 25, 2026 (LANA) – Oil expert Mohamed Al-Shahati warned of the repercussions of any potential spill from a Russian tanker in Libyan waters, stressing that the impact could affect the marine environment and human health, although the chances of an explosion or detonation remain very low.

In a press statement, Al-Shahati explained that a spill – if it occurs – would be limited, and its effects could extend to the Libyan coast or even Tunisia and Malta, depending on the movement of sea currents.

He pointed out that large-scale spills are usually associated with oil fields and wells, not tanker accidents, noting that the tanker sustained structural damage, which complicates the safe unloading of its cargo.

He added that unloading the cargo presents a significant challenge, especially since the tanker is carrying liquefied natural gas, which requires specialized regasification technologies available at only a limited number of terminals, including those in Egypt and Italy.

He explained that such incidents are not rare, but rather recur in a number of countries, including the United States, noting that the international community and oil companies may intervene to address such situations despite the potential risks.

Al-Shahhati called for close monitoring of developments and coordination with international experts to ensure that any emergency is handled according to scientific and safe principles, emphasizing the need to not underestimate the potential risks, however limited they may be.

...(LANA)...