Image: from Anadolu English X @anadoluagency
By Open Chronicle with Agencies
Gasoline prices across the United States have climbed above $4.50 per gallon for the first time since July 2022 as the ongoing conflict involving Iran continues to disrupt energy markets and tighten global fuel supplies.
According to data released Tuesday by the American Automobile Association, the national average price for regular unleaded gasoline reached $4.54 per gallon.
Although still below the record high of $5.01 per gallon recorded in June 2022, current fuel prices are already the highest ever recorded for this time of year.
Pressure on consumers grows
The increase in fuel costs is adding new pressure on American households already dealing with inflation concerns and higher living expenses.
Prices remain especially elevated in California, where gasoline has surpassed $6 per gallon in several areas. Costs have also risen sharply across parts of the Midwest, with some states approaching the $5 threshold.
Analysts say the prolonged instability in the Gulf region and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continue fueling fears over potential supply disruptions.
Gasoline prices had briefly eased in April after Washington and Tehran announced a temporary halt in hostilities, but prices never fell below $4 per gallon following the sharp surge that began in mid-March.
Since the outbreak of the conflict, average fuel prices in the United States have increased by more than $1.50 per gallon.
Markets are watching diplomacy closely
Energy markets remain highly sensitive to developments surrounding diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran.
US President Donald Trump recently claimed that “great progress” had been made toward ending the conflict, helping calm some investor concerns.
However, uncertainty over the future of shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz continues to keep oil and gasoline markets volatile.
Benchmark gasoline futures, which remained near $3 per gallon for much of the conflict period, surged in late April to their highest levels since 2022.
Economists warn that prolonged increases in fuel prices could weaken consumer confidence, increase transportation costs, and place additional strain on inflation across the broader US economy.