News in Levels

United States announces blockade on the Strait of Hormuz

World ·

United States announces blockade on the Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump said the United States will block the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway. Many oil ships pass through it. Trump made the announcement on Sunday. He posted it on social media. The US Navy will stop all ships from going in or out. This happened because talks between the US and Iran failed. After the news, oil prices went up. Gas prices went up too. Iran's parliament leader warned that gas prices would rise even more. He said Iran would fight back if attacked. China said it wants the area to stay calm and keep energy supplies moving.

Difficult words

blockade
— when a military force prevents ships or people from entering or leaving an area
strait
— a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water
parliament
— the group of elected officials who make laws in a country

Quiz

  1. 1. Who announced the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz?
  2. 2. Why did the US put the blockade in place?
  3. 3. What happened to oil and gas prices after the blockade was announced?
  4. 4. What did China say about the situation?