Donald Trump made an important demand about Hormuz recently. He announced that all vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz should pay a 20% fee. This fee aims to cover the costs of making these waters safe. On Monday, he shared this on social media, but on Tuesday, Trump changed his proposal completely. He instead suggested making trade and investment deals with US allies in the Gulf. This would allow safer passage for their ships in exchange for some benefits. The conflict with Iran is ongoing and has lasted more than four months. Although there was an agreement for a ceasefire, the situation remains complicated and tense. If Trump wants to avoid worsening the conflict, he must consider public opinion, as many Americans have begun to oppose the war. Rising energy prices and the risk of attacks on US allies are also big concerns. Additionally, Trump's previous proposal of a fee for ships points to his search for unorthodox solutions. These recent changes show that he is struggling to find a clear path forward. It appears that combat is still present, and no side has gained a lasting advantage. So, uncertainty and tension are likely to continue in the Straits of Hormuz.
B1 · Intermediate · 201 words · ~1 min
2026-07-15 · BBC News · politics

Trump's Recent Proposal Regarding Fees in the Strait of Hormuz
Word notebook · B1
Tap a highlighted word in the text, or study the list below.
- vessels
- ships and boats of various sizes
- crossing
- going from one side to the other
- ceasefire
- an agreement to stop fighting temporarily
- volatile
- likely to change suddenly and unpredictably, especially for the worse
- tension
- mental or emotional strain; stress or unease
- proposals
- plans or suggestions put forward for consideration
- strategies
- plans made to achieve a particular goal
- advantage
- a condition or circumstance that puts one in a favorable or superior position
Comprehension check · B1
Finished reading? See how much stuck.
1.What did Trump announce on Monday?
2.Why is Trump hesitant to escalate the war?
3.What does the proposal for a 20% fee indicate about Trump's strategies?















































