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Gas Prices Surge Amid U.S.-Israeli War, Experts Warn

3/20/2026

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Gas prices have risen to an average of $3.88 per gallon, up nearly $1 since the onset of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran.
Crude oil prices exceed $100 per barrel due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. President Donald Trump has downplayed the impact, while experts warn higher fuel costs will persist.
Public dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of the economy is rising as Americans feel the financial strain.

History

Historical Context

The 1973 Oil Crisis began when the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) imposed an embargo on nations supporting Israel during the Yom Kippur War, causing oil prices to quadruple. This crisis led to a 400% surge in U.S. gas prices, triggering economic turmoil and prompting calls for energy independence. Today’s rising gas prices reflect ongoing vulnerabilities in global oil supply chains.

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Story summary

Gas prices have risen to an average of $3.88 per gallon, up nearly $1 since the onset of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran.
Crude oil prices exceed $100 per barrel due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. President Donald Trump has downplayed the impact, while experts warn higher fuel costs will persist.
Public dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of the economy is rising as Americans feel the financial strain.

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