US gas hits $4 a gallon for first time since 2022

American – (Web Desk) – Gas prices have officially crossed the $4-a-gallon mark, with the national average hitting $4.02 on Tuesday, March 31 — the highest Americans have seen at the pump since August 2022. The surge is being driven by the ongoing war involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, which has sent shockwaves through global energy markets.

To put it in perspective, just a month ago — before the conflict broke out on February 28 — drivers were paying around $2.98 a gallon. That’s a jump of over a dollar in just four weeks, which is a significant hit to everyday budgets.

And it’s not just gasoline feeling the pressure. Diesel prices have climbed sharply too, now averaging $5.45 a gallon, up from $3.76 before the war began. That matters for all of us, because diesel powers the trucks and freight trains that move goods across the country — meaning higher diesel costs could soon show up in the prices we pay for everyday items at the store.

The primary factor behind the surge in gas prices is disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. It has been a month since the Strait was closed, ceasing tanker traffic and forcing major oil producers in the region to reduce output.

Crude oil prices have also increased, with Brent crude trading near $120 per barrel.

Oil and equities climb amid Iran tanker strike, Trump signals

U.S. President Donald Trump, who promised to lower fuel costs in his 2024 election campaign, has characterized the price surge as a temporary disruption.

According to White House officials, the prices will “plummet back” after the conclusion of Operation Epic Fury.