WorldJune 23, 2026

Oil Sales Resume, But Nuclear Steps Remain Unclear

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② Start Lesson

Key Vocabulary

sanctions/ˈsæŋk.ʃənz/

Official penalties placed on a country to limit trade or other exchanges.

"The country faced economic sanctions for some years."

inspectors/ɪnˈspɛk.tərz/

People who check places or activities to make sure rules are followed.

"Inspectors will visit the plant tomorrow."

waiver/ˈweɪ.vər/

An official exception that allows someone to skip a rule for a time.

"The company received a waiver to continue operations."

Listening

Oil Sales Resume, But Nuclear Steps Remain Unclear

Vice President JD Vance said Iran agreed to invite U.N. nuclear inspectors into the country after talks in Switzerland. He said the inspectors would check Iran's nuclear sites and report their findings. Vance spoke at a brief press event after the meetings.

The United States eased oil sanctions so Iran can sell crude during a 60-day period while negotiators work. The Treasury Department issued sanctions waivers to allow sales and related services. Iran's foreign ministry pushed back and said it had made "no new commitments" on inspections while talks continue. More talks will follow soon.

95 words

Quiz

1. Who said Iran agreed to invite U.N. nuclear inspectors?

2. What phrase did Iran's foreign ministry use to describe its commitments?

3. Which department issued sanctions waivers?

Reading Practice

Read the article from the Listening section aloud. Your AI teacher will give you pronunciation feedback.

Discussion

Do you follow world news about nuclear inspections? Why or why not?

Have you ever heard about economic sanctions? How did they sound to you?

What do you think about inspectors visiting a country? Would you feel safer?