As the war in the Middle East continues to rage on, going into the fourth week, Americans at home are starting to feel the economic effects, specifically when it comes to the increasing price on gasoline. On March 2nd 2026, Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz as a response to the ongoing attacks from Israeli and American forces. Approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply comes directly from the Strait of Hormuz, and due to its blockades, the price of gasoline is going up all over the country.
The American people had already vocalized their concerns over the rising cost of living, and with the prices of gasoline going up, so do those concerns regarding affordability. The rising cost of gasoline comes in the wake of prices lowering after the invasion of Venezuela, where prices were slowly declining at $2.90 per gallon. 

However since the conflict in Iran began, prices have already risen by around 65 to 71 cents per gallon in Massachusetts. Currently the gas prices at the pump are approximately $3.55 to $3.68 per gallon. These prices are expected to rise as prices inch towards $4 per gallon across the country.

President Trump has been putting resources towards the Strait with military attacks in the hopes of reopening the Strait. He has been calling for the allies in the war to send warships in order to protect the oil tankers, however many are hesitant due to the lack of good relations between them after the harsh tariffs and repeated insults and threats. Trump said this to a reporter on Thursday in the oval office, “I thought there was a chance it could be much worse.” and “It’s not bad. And it’s going to be over with pretty soon.” Despite this claim, the war continues and prices continue to rise while the President continues his threats and tariffs.