JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Gas prices across the United States are expected to rise by 30 cents per gallon or more—including in Tennessee—by the Fourth of July.
Analysts have made these predictions in the wake of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, which has further heightened tensions in the region. The primary cause of the increase is a surge in global oil prices, with the Middle East—particularly Iran—serving as one of the world’s largest oil producers. In an article by Amy Kiley of CNN, University of Essex professor of government Natasha Lindstaedt stated that any major conflict in the Middle East often results in a rise in oil prices, which in turn drives up gas prices and fuels inflation across the U.S.
Several oil-related structures have reportedly been damaged during the ongoing conflict, including infrastructure in Haifa—home to Israel’s largest oil refinery—and multiple gas facilities in southern Iran. Experts also warned that prices could climb even higher if Iran were to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. This passage is considered one of the most critical oil trade routes in the world, used by many nations for distributing oil.
For now, gas prices are projected to rise by at least 30 cents per gallon, though this number may shift depending on how the conflict between Israel and Iran unfolds.
