In response to an oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the U.S. Coast Guard has initiated a cleanup operation, collaborating with local and federal agencies, as well as private companies. The incident involves an underwater pipeline operated by Main Pass Oil Gathering Co (MPOG) that has experienced a leak.

Located approximately 19 miles (30 km) offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, east of Venice, Louisiana, the leaking crude oil pipeline has prompted swift action from environmental and maritime authorities. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirmed the spill and disclosed that the Coast Guard has taken the lead in coordinating the cleanup efforts.

Third Coast Infrastructure Llc, the owner of MPOG, refrained from providing comments on the incident and directed inquiries to the U.S. Coast Guard.

The EPA further informed that the National Response Team, consisting of 15 federal entities dedicated to coordinating responses to oil pollution incidents, has been activated by the Coast Guard.

The collaborative response involves close coordination between the Coast Guard, MPOG, the Louisiana Oil Spill Coordinator's Office, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and other relevant agencies.

The discovery of crude oil in the vicinity of MPOG's pipeline system, close to Plaquemines Parish southeast of New Orleans, was initially observed by a company aircrew during an overflight conducted on Thursday.

The ongoing cleanup operation underscores the significance of prompt and effective responses to mitigate environmental impact and protect the Gulf of Mexico's delicate ecosystem.