Gasoline prices across the United States climbed above $4 per gallon on Tuesday for the first time in nearly four years, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East and major disruptions to global oil supply.

According to AAA, the national average reached about $4.01 per gallon, with premium fuel averaging $4.90 and diesel rising to $5.45. Prices have jumped more than 30% since late February, when the U.S. and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iran, triggering a broader conflict.

Despite being a net exporter of oil, the U.S. is not insulated from rising costs because fuel prices are tied to global markets (crude oil alone accounts for more than half of what consumers pay at the pump.) At the center of the issue is the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor that typically handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments. Iran’s response—including restrictions and intermittent closures of the route—has sharply reduced supply, sending shockwaves through global energy markets.

Oil prices have reacted swiftly — Benchmark Brent crude oil surged to around $115 per barrel Tuesday, up from roughly $70 before the war, while U.S.-produced West Texas Intermediate climbed to about $104. Analysts warn that continued instability could push prices even higher.

The International Energy Agency described the issue as “the largest supply chain disruption in the history of the global oil market,” with its director cautioning that the situation poses a “major, major threat” to the global economy. In response, member nations have announced a historic release of 400 million barrels from strategic reserves to ease supply pressure.

Meanwhile, the conflict shows little sign of easing. President Trump has claimed ongoing negotiations with Iran, though Tehran has disputed that characterization. He has also threatened further strikes, including on Iran’s energy infrastructure, if a deal is not reached “shortly.”

Editorial credit: Noah Sauve / Shutterstock.com

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