The Shahid Bagheri, an Iranian drone carrier, has been leaking heavy fuel oil into Iranian territorial waters since it was bombed by a US warplane on March 6. This spill threatens the Hara biosphere reserve in the Gulf, which is crucial for its mangrove ecosystem and local fishing communities. Satellite analysis shows that the oil has traveled 16 miles southwest towards the reserve, with the potential for significant ecological damage, particularly to migrating birds and endangered turtles. Environmental analysts, including Tim Richards, have noted that the spill could be the most ecologically significant since the first Gulf War. The ongoing conflict has already resulted in multiple smaller spills in the region, raising concerns about future environmental catastrophes if military actions continue. Wim Zwijnenburg, an environmental analyst, emphasized the dangers of targeting oil and chemical tankers, warning that continued attacks could lead to a major disaster.