The U.S. war with Iran is a major reason behind rising gas prices. Prices have risen nearly 70 cents in Los Angeles County.

On February 28, 2026, the U.S. war with Iran began with the sending of coordinated surprise airstrikes against the Iranian military. The attack was to prevent them from developing more nuclear weapons, breaking their agreement regarding the same nuclear weapons.

The Iran war causes oil transportation to be delayed through the strait of Hormuz because the waterway has been effectively closed to most commercial shipping. Previously, Iran shipped oil to the U.S., resulting in delayed transportation.

Sophomore Mario Perez said, “If we can stop this war, then hopefully prices will drop, because it’s starting to increase too much,”

By 2026, national gas prices have averaged four dollars. In contrast, the California gas prices have doubled the national average. State legislators in both Arizona and Connecticut have lowered the gas tax to alleviate high gas prices. The California gas tax will not be removed or reduced. This tax is used to fund road repairs, bridge repairs, transportation projects and the state’s low carbon fuel standard.

Sophomore Ethan Garcia said, “Ever since I saw those gas prices, I’ve been thinking about buying an electric car in the future.”