In the U.S., gasoline price hike on top of hike: experts explain the reason

Fuel bills for drivers in the United States are getting heavier again. While gasoline prices are rising rapidly across the country, it is noted that disruptions in global oil supply could translate into higher pump prices.

According to AAA data, as of September 18, the national average price of regular gasoline in the United States rose to about $4.47 per gallon. A week earlier, the average price was around $4.30, and a month earlier it was approximately $4.07. Prices are also well above the $3.20 level seen in the same period last year.

A Big Leap in One Night in Some Regions

The rise in prices is not occurring at the same pace across every region of the country. According to FOX, in some parts of the United States, gasoline prices increased by as much as 25 cents per gallon in just one night this week. Experts point out that the rise could continue in the short term due to current conditions in the global oil market.

AAA also reports that the national average of regular gasoline is approaching the $4.56 peak seen on May 21, 2026. The all‑time national average record for regular gasoline in the United States was about $5.01 in June 2022.

Critical Development Raising Prices

One of the most important factors behind the latest rise in gasoline prices is the disruptions in global oil trade caused by the Iran war. In particular, the damage to Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline from an attack has further heightened supply concerns in the markets.

According to data reported by the Associated Press, the line in question played a critical role in transporting oil to Yanbu Port on the Red Sea coast without using the Strait of Hormuz. Roughly 2.6 to 4 million barrels of oil were moved through the line each day. At its peak, this amount accounts for about 4% of global oil supply. It is said that the line could be largely out of service for three to five weeks after the damage.

Tension in the Strait of Hormuz Pressures the Market

Another major reason for the pressure in the oil market is the ongoing security crisis around the Strait of Hormuz. Conflicts in the region and attacks on oil tankers are increasing uncertainty at one of the world's most critical energy transit points.

AAA says that crude prices hovering around $100 and volatility in the Strait of Hormuz are driving up gasoline prices in the United States. According to the organization's data, prices are rising during a period when a decline was expected due to falling demand.

Trump: 'A Very Small Price to Pay'

President Donald Trump, at an event in North Carolina, assessed the rising gasoline prices in the context of the Iran war, saying that it is a "very small price to pay" for what has been done. Trump also argued that prices would fall rapidly in the future.

The direction in which fuel prices will move in the coming weeks will largely depend on the course of oil supply, how quickly the pipeline in Saudi Arabia will resume operation, and the impact of conflicts in the Middle East on energy transport. The current picture, however, does not point to a noticeable short‑term easing at the pump for drivers in the United States.