Gas prices in the United States have climbed to their highest level since 2023 as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global energy markets.
According to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA), the national average price for gasoline rose by two cents on Monday (March 16), reaching $3.72 per gallon, the highest level recorded since October 7, 2023.
The surge in fuel prices follows escalating tensions after joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28. Since then, Tehran has launched retaliatory attacks targeting Israeli positions as well as American military bases and diplomatic facilities across the region.
Since the start of the conflict, gasoline prices in the United States have increased by 74 cents per gallon, a jump of nearly 26.9 percent. Analysts say this marks the sharpest monthly increase since the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
The rising fuel costs pose a political challenge for U.S. President Donald Trump, who had pledged during his re-election campaign to lower gasoline prices. After returning to office, fuel prices had dropped significantly, falling to around $3 per gallon in December, the lowest level since May 2021.
However, the war-driven energy shock has also pushed diesel prices sharply higher. Since the conflict began, diesel has risen by $1.24, reaching $4.99 per gallon, its highest level since December 2022. Higher diesel prices have already forced many U.S. trucking companies to increase freight charges, which could eventually raise consumer prices across the country.
In global energy markets, benchmark Brent Crude traded at $103.50 per barrel on Monday, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell about one percent to $98 per barrel.
Energy analysts say supply concerns are growing after Iran tightened restrictions on oil shipments passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route that carries nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply.
The conflict has now entered its third week, and the White House has warned that the war could continue for several more weeks.
Meanwhile, the United States reportedly launched strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island on Friday, a key hub for Iranian oil exports. Tehran claims the attacks did not damage its oil infrastructure.
Source: CNN
