WASHINGTON — The closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran in response to U.S. Military strikes has triggered a surge in gasoline prices across the United States, exacerbating economic anxieties as the conflict enters its third week. According to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released Tuesday, 65% of Americans believe President Donald Trump will order a large-scale ground war in Iran, despite 55% opposing such a move. Reuters reports that only 7% of those surveyed support a large-scale ground invasion.
The price of gasoline has risen in every state since the conflict began at the end of February, with residents in Georgia, Wisconsin, and Michigan reporting increases of at least $1 per gallon, according to AAA’s average fuel prices. This increase comes as a stark contrast to President Trump’s campaign promise to lower costs for consumers.
The economic impact extends beyond the pump. The U.S. Economy is still recovering from pandemic-era inflation, and the ongoing war in Iran threatens to reverse recent progress. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which controls approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply, is a primary driver of rising prices.
The current situation echoes the early 2000s, during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan under President George W. Bush, when escalating oil prices led to widespread gasoline shortages and panic buying.
The Trump administration has responded by authorizing the release of 170 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) in an attempt to stabilize prices. However, analysts suggest that without access to Iranian oil or the Strait of Hormuz, these measures will have limited long-term effect.
Public support for the war remains divided. While 37% of Americans overall support the military campaign, 59% oppose it, according to the Reuters/Ipsos poll. Notably, 77% of Republicans approve of the strikes, compared to 28% of independents and 6% of Democrats. Iran International reported on this partisan divide.
The Pentagon is currently seeking an additional $200 billion from Congress to fund the war effort, signaling a prolonged commitment to military action in the region. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has declined to rule out the use of U.S. Ground forces, despite President Trump stating on Thursday that he was “not putting troops anywhere,” adding, “If I were, I certainly wouldn’t advise you.” Fox News detailed the conflicting statements.
As the conflict continues, the duration of the war and the outcome of military engagements will be key determinants of future oil prices. Congress is now weighing the Pentagon’s request for additional funding, a decision that will shape the trajectory of the U.S. Military presence in the Middle East.
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