An article summarized by The Hill:
U.S. gas prices have surged to their highest level in four years, with the national average hitting $4.18 per gallon. The spike, up about 40% since late February, has been driven largely by rising global energy costs the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran. Prices vary widely by region, with California nearing $6 per gallon while states like Oklahoma remain closer to $3.50.
The increase is closely tied to disruptions in global oil supply, particularly after Iran repeatedly shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for about 20% of the world’s oil and gas. The uncertainty pushed oil prices sharply higher, with U.S. benchmark crude nearing $100 per barrel and international Brent crude exceeding $111. These levels haven’t been seen since the early stages of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022.
The price surge has also become a political flashpoint. A majority of Americans, according to polling, attribute at least some responsibility to President Trump, while his administration has defended its actions as necessary to counter Iran’s potential nuclear threat. Meanwhile, Iran has floated proposals to reopen the strait and ease tensions, though disagreements over its nuclear program remain a major obstacle to any broader resolution.
