Full Breakdown
Rising Gas Prices Amid Trump's Iran Strategy
4/1/2026, 10:40:12 PM
Overview of the Situation
The recent surge in U.S. gas prices, which have exceeded $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022, has been linked to President Donald Trump’s military actions in Iran and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Late-night hosts, particularly Stephen Colbert, have highlighted these developments, emphasizing the impact on consumers and the political ramifications for Trump.
Key Events and Responses
Stephen Colbert opened his monologue by noting the dramatic rise in gas prices, which had been around $3 a gallon just a month prior. He attributed this increase to Trump's military strategy in Iran, suggesting that the president's actions have not only affected oil prices but also his approval ratings, which have plummeted to 33%, according to a University of Massachusetts Amherst poll. Colbert humorously questioned the motivations of the 22.4% of Americans who still strongly approve of Trump, suggesting they might want higher gas prices or other negative outcomes.
In a series of posts on Truth Social, Trump has expressed frustration with European allies, urging them to "go get your own oil" and suggesting they should take military action to secure oil supplies. Colbert criticized this stance, pointing out the absurdity of Trump blaming others for a crisis he initiated. He remarked, “You started a war that caused the strait of Hormuz to be closed, and now you want someone else to figure out how to open it?”
Criticism of Trump's Strategy
Colbert and other commentators have condemned Trump's military strategy as reckless. Colbert referred to Trump's suggestion of destroying Iranian infrastructure as potentially constituting a war crime, emphasizing the gravity of such actions. He quipped about the irony of Trump, who has been linked to numerous controversies, calling for military aggression while simultaneously attempting to distance himself from the consequences of his decisions.
Broader Implications
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil supplies, has significant implications for international relations and energy markets. The ongoing conflict has not only led to rising gas prices but has also strained U.S. relations with NATO allies, who have been criticized by Trump for not supporting his military efforts in Iran. This situation raises questions about the future of U.S. foreign policy and its commitments to allies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “this is a big change for consumers” — Stephen Colbert, Late Show Host
- “So just to get this straight: you started a war that caused the strait of Hormuz to be closed, and now you want someone else to figure out how to open it?” — Desi Lydic, The Daily Show Correspondent
- “And “deliberately blowing up infrastructure could constitute a war crime.” — Stephen Colbert, Late Show Host
- “Go get your own oil!” — Donald Trump, Truth Social
Conclusion
The interplay between Trump's military actions in Iran and the resulting economic consequences for American consumers illustrates the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and its domestic repercussions. As gas prices continue to rise, the political fallout for Trump may deepen, particularly as public discontent grows over the handling of the situation.
