Iran has announced that it is close to finishing a new agreement with Oman regarding shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The foreign ministry spokesman pointed out that while this deal is nearly complete, it does not guarantee safe navigation for vessels. The region's security remains uncertain, primarily due to the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports. This blockade has caused significant disruptions and fears about shipping safety in the area. Traditionally, around 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas passes through this important shipping route. Iran has controlled the strait in recent months and has disrupted shipping traffic. The agreement would require ships to pay a fee, which Iran estimates to be between 5% and 7% of the cargo's value. In contrast, Oman is considering a lower fee of around 3%, while the United States has suggested that there should be no fees at all. If this agreement is finalized, it could play a crucial role in stabilizing the strait and improving trade in the region. However, Iran's foreign ministry has warned that factors making the Strait of Hormuz insecure are still present, particularly due to US naval actions. Therefore, the future of this shipping route, which is so vital for the global oil supply, remains uncertain. The deal could also have wider effects on oil prices and international relations, as every shift in this area can influence market stability and political dynamics.
B1 · Intermediate · 237 words · ~1 min
2026-08-06 · BBC News · politics

Iran and Oman finalize shipping route agreement
Word notebook · B1
Tap a highlighted word in the text, or study the list below.
- blockade
- a situation where someone prevents goods or people from entering or leaving a place.
- disruption
- an interruption or disturbance that prevents something from continuing as normal.
- navigate
- to plan and follow a route or direction on a journey.
- cargo
- the goods carried on a ship or vehicle.
- estimate
- to make a guess about the size, cost, or value of something.
Comprehension check · B1
Finished reading? See how much stuck.
1.What percentage of the world's oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz?
2.What fee does Iran estimate ships would have to pay under the agreement?
3.Why does Iran warn that navigation will not be safe even with the new agreement?















































