ELI5: Why did Iran close the Strait of Hormuz?

Iran might close the Strait of Hormuz to show they're really, really angry and to make other countries listen to them.

Imagine the Strait of Hormuz is like the only road that leads to your house, and your house is a giant oil well. All your neighbors need the oil from your well to drive their cars, heat their homes, and power their factories.

Now, imagine you're in a big fight with some of your neighbors. They're being mean and not playing fair. To show them you're serious and to make them stop, you might threaten to block the road!

• That's basically what Iran is doing. The Strait of Hormuz is a very narrow waterway – like that one road – and a huge amount of the world's oil passes through it every day.
• If Iran closes it, it's like putting up a big "ROAD CLOSED" sign.

• Maybe they feel like other countries are treating them unfairly – like those mean neighbors.
• Maybe they want something from those countries – like an apology or a change in how they're being treated.
• Closing the Strait of Hormuz is a very big deal, because it can make the price of gasoline go up everywhere, and it can make countries very worried about getting the oil they need. It's like if your neighbors suddenly couldn't drive to work or heat their homes!
• It's a way for Iran to show its power and say, "Hey, pay attention to me!" It's a very risky move, though, because it can lead to even bigger problems.