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Rising Energy Costs Threaten Farmers Amid U.S.-Israeli Conflict

3/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Former Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) says farmers face higher energy prices as the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran drives up global energy costs, with WTI above $86 per barrel.
Tester, a farmer, attributes increased input costs to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies that raise prices for imported fertilizers and equipment.
He warns that rising energy prices could push many farmers out of business as profit margins remain slim.

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Story summary

Former Senator Jon Tester (D-Mont.) says farmers face higher energy prices as the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran drives up global energy costs, with WTI above $86 per barrel.
Tester, a farmer, attributes increased input costs to President Donald Trump’s tariff policies that raise prices for imported fertilizers and equipment.
He warns that rising energy prices could push many farmers out of business as profit margins remain slim.