Gas Prices Surged Amid Conflict With Iran
The national average gas price reached $4.48 as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted oil transit.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Inflation
Live Poll
Would you accept higher gas prices if it meant supporting a war effort you favor?
The national average gas price rose to $4.48 per gallon on Tuesday following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to oil transit. Senator Tommy Tuberville has claimed voters are willing to accept these higher costs to support the war initiated by President Donald Trump.
Why it matters
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has significantly impacted global oil affordability, leaving the cost of living as a central concern for the upcoming midterms. Disagreements remain over public support for these economic consequences as national approval ratings for the president on gas prices remain low.
A Marquette University Law School survey of 1,023 U.S. adults found only 20% approve of the president's handling of gas prices. Meanwhile, diesel prices hit a record $6.50 per gallon on Monday, reflecting the volatility caused by the blockade.
The players
Tommy Tuberville
He is a U.S. Senator from Alabama who has publicly defended the administration's policy on fuel costs.
Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States who has launched a war on Iran.
Harry Enten
He is a political analyst who challenged claims about public support using recent polling data.
Marquette University Law School
This institution conducted a national survey of U.S. adults to gauge public sentiment on gas prices.
The details
President Donald Trump has launched a war on Iran, resulting in the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil supply typically passes. Senator Tommy Tuberville asserted that his constituents in Alabama support the administration despite the record-high fuel costs, though analysts cite low national polling as evidence of widespread dissatisfaction.
Timeline
September 2 through September 9, 2026: The Marquette University Law School survey was conducted.
Monday, September 21, 2026: Diesel prices reached a record high of $6.50 per gallon.
Tuesday, September 22, 2026: The national average gas price reached $4.48 per gallon.
Macro View
The current closure of the Strait of Hormuz follows a pattern set by the 1973 oil embargo where geopolitical conflict led to immediate domestic fuel price spikes. This event mirrors historical periods where international trade blockades dictated domestic economic performance.
The record-high fuel costs are placing immediate pressure on family budgets and monthly living expenses. Consumers may face reduced disposable income as higher transportation costs ripple through the price of consumer goods.
The takeaway
Rising fuel prices during wartime serve as a reminder of the volatility inherent in global oil supply chains. Households should prepare for sustained increases in the cost of living while the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to transit.
Further reading
For more on the current economic climate, visit the Inflation section.
Live Poll
Would you accept higher gas prices if it meant supporting a war effort you favor?
