Story perspectives

SNL Skewers Gas Prices and Iran War in Cold Open

3/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

On March 14, 2026, Saturday Night Live aired a cold open addressing rising gas prices and the war in Iran.
James Austin Johnson portrayed U.S. President Donald Trump and stated, "A promise is just a lie that hasn’t happened yet."
Colin Jost played Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who urged oil tankers to "close your eyes and gun it" past mines.

History

Historical Context

The Gulf War began on August 2, 1990, when Iraq, led by Saddam Hussein, invaded Kuwait, claiming economic grievances over oil production. In response, a 42-nation coalition, led by the United States, launched Operation Desert Shield to protect Saudi Arabia and later initiated Operation Desert Storm on January 17, 1991, liberating Kuwait by February 28, 1991. The conflict underscored the geopolitical significance of oil and shaped U.S. foreign policy.

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Story summary

On March 14, 2026, Saturday Night Live aired a cold open addressing rising gas prices and the war in Iran.
James Austin Johnson portrayed U.S. President Donald Trump and stated, "A promise is just a lie that hasn’t happened yet."
Colin Jost played Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who urged oil tankers to "close your eyes and gun it" past mines.

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