Middle East War Drives Gas Prices Higher Nationwide, Across Southern California

Gas prices are climbing across the United States as turmoil in the Middle East begins to affect energy markets, with Southern California drivers experiencing some of the highest prices in the country.

The statewide average price for gasoline in California has surged above $5 per gallon, including in Riverside County. In some parts of the Los Angeles area, drivers are reportedly paying as much as $8 per gallon at the pump.

Nationwide, the average price for a gallon of gasoline has risen to about $3.48, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). The increase follows the outbreak of war involving Iran just a week ago, which has sent shockwaves through global oil markets.

On Sunday, crude oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel for the first time in years. Analysts note that retail gasoline prices tend to change more slowly on weekends because wholesale gasoline markets are closed, meaning further increases could still occur during the week.

Economists warn that rising fuel prices affect far more than the cost of filling up a vehicle. Because transportation is essential for moving goods, higher fuel costs often ripple throughout the economy, driving up prices for food, consumer products, and other essentials.

The price surge marks the first time oil has crossed the $100-per-barrel threshold since the Russian invasion of Ukraine disrupted global energy supplies in 2022.

Amid the rising costs, Donald Trump addressed the issue on social media Sunday. The president described the spike in gasoline prices as a “small price to pay” for Americans and the rest of the world if it leads to greater security and peace.

Trump also suggested the increase in fuel prices would likely be temporary, saying prices should stabilize once what he described as Iran’s nuclear threat is resolved.

Energy analysts say the direction of gas prices in the coming weeks will depend largely on how the conflict develops and whether global oil supplies are further disrupted. If tensions continue to escalate, prices at the pump could remain volatile throughout the spring.