Washington, September 8
The Iran conflict and disruptions to crude oil shipments through a key maritime route have pushed US gasoline prices to their highest level in years, increasing financial pressure on American households and affecting travel plans.
The average price of regular gasoline in the United States has reached $4.14 per gallon, nearly $1 higher than a year ago. The price has surpassed the previous record of $3.82 per gallon recorded in 2012. However, it remains below the all-time high of $5.02 per gallon reached in June 2022.
The surge has prompted some families to reduce long-distance travel as higher fuel costs strain household budgets. Rising gasoline prices are also increasing transportation costs, which could eventually push up the prices of food, industrial goods and other consumer products.
The increase has been linked largely to disruptions in crude oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for transporting oil and other energy products from the Middle East to global markets.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the US government was taking measures to lower gasoline prices but did not provide a clear timeline for relief.
If disruptions continue, US consumers could face further pressure from persistently high fuel prices.
—RSS/AP
