Topical Talk

Strait of Hormuz: war, oil and the cost of living

What is the Strait of Hormuz? And how is it relevant to the conflict in the Middle East?

Collage of pages from the “Strait of Hormuz” teaching resource showing the cover and lesson plan

Published 02 April 2026

About this lesson

Around 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes through the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow stretch of water linking the Middle East to global markets. The war in Iran has led to attacks on oil tankers, stopping them from delivering their cargo.

What happens when a major global supply route is disrupted?

Use this lesson to help students:

  • Explore how the war affects the Strait of Hormuz
  • Understand how supply chains work
  • Consider how disruption can affect everyday costs

Skills and knowledge

  • Speaking

    Step 6: Choosing language
    I choose appropriate language for the situation
    Did you use the language from the news story to help discuss the perspectives?

    Step 11: Speaking engagingly
    I communicate in a way that is engaging for my audience
    Did you speak engagingly when you argued that your role is the most important?

    Step 13: Negotiating
    I manage discussion effectively to reach an agreement
    Did you manage discussions to reach an agreement before you moved each card?

  • Knowledge

    I know the Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for global trade and that blocking it can make things cost more.
    How did the blockage affect each part of the supply chain?

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