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Critics Slam Hassett's Economic Claims Amid Rising Gas Prices

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Kevin Hassett, the Director of the National Economic Council, said the extension of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran would not disrupt the U.S. economy.
Gas prices have risen to $3.79 per gallon, up from $3.00 before the conflict began.
Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, condemned Hassett's remarks as lacking empathy toward ordinary Americans.
The war has cost taxpayers $12 billion, and its duration remains uncertain.

History

Historical Context

The 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq, which cost taxpayers over $100 billion, significantly impacted domestic economic stability. By 2017, total costs were projected to reach $2.4 trillion. Today, Kevin Hassett's claim that the U.S.-Israeli conflict won't disrupt the economy echoes past justifications for military spending, even as gas prices rise to $3.79 per gallon, highlighting ongoing tensions between military commitments and economic priorities.

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Story summary

Kevin Hassett, the Director of the National Economic Council, said the extension of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran would not disrupt the U.S. economy.
Gas prices have risen to $3.79 per gallon, up from $3.00 before the conflict began.
Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, condemned Hassett's remarks as lacking empathy toward ordinary Americans.
The war has cost taxpayers $12 billion, and its duration remains uncertain.

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