LOS ANGELES — Rising tensions in the Middle East are rippling across the United States economy, with gasoline prices climbing to their highest levels since early 2022 and placing renewed pressure on households already grappling with high living costs.
At a gas station in Los Angeles, 28-year-old Ryder Thomas expressed frustration as he filled his pickup truck, watching the cost rise to $130 — roughly $30 more than what he paid before recent military strikes involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
“I’m upset about the price, but even more about what’s causing it,” he said.
The surge in fuel prices follows escalating hostilities that began on February 28, when coordinated attacks targeted Iran. The conflict has disrupted global oil supply chains, particularly after Iran moved to block the Strait of Hormuz — a critical shipping route responsible for transporting about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas.
The resulting supply squeeze has pushed crude oil prices higher, with gasoline in California now exceeding $6 per gallon, up from around $4.50 before the crisis.
Economists warn that the spike in fuel costs could trigger a broader “domino effect,” increasing transportation expenses and driving up the prices of essential goods such as food and clothing.
Public reaction to the conflict remains divided. While some Americans strongly oppose the military action, others urge caution in assigning blame.
David Chavez, a cameraman waiting to refuel at a Costco station, acknowledged the burden of higher fuel costs but suggested the issue is more complex.
“It’s not good — nobody wants to pay more for gas,” he said. “But we don’t always know what’s happening behind closed doors. It’s too easy to blame one person.”
Chavez, who previously supported Democratic candidates, said concerns over immigration and the economy influenced his decision to back former President Donald Trump. Still, he expressed disappointment with the current situation, while also pointing to oil companies and state-level environmental policies as contributing factors to rising prices.
For others, the impact is more immediate and severe.
Flo, a 73-year-old retiree, said the surge in fuel costs has forced her to make difficult adjustments. Living on a combined monthly income of about $3,000 from her pension and part-time work, she now relies more heavily on food banks and limits her travel to cut expenses.
“Life was already hard,” she said quietly. “Now it’s just harder.”
As the conflict continues, analysts caution that sustained disruptions in global energy supply could prolong economic pressure on consumers, with fuel prices remaining a key concern for policymakers and households alike.
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