White House Comments on Gas Prices Amid Ongoing Military Actions

On Wednesday, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt stated that gas prices have seen a decrease during the Trump administration, despite a notable rise since the onset of military operations against Iran.

President Trump recently declared a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz via a post on Truth Social, shortly after Vice President J.D. Vance informed reporters that negotiations with Iran were at a standstill. Levitt responded to a reporter’s question aimed at Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent regarding his remarks on “economic pain” linked to Operation Epic Fury.

“Thankfully, we have a president who believes that America’s energy advantage will ultimately lower prices,” Levitt remarked.

She added, “Look at how gas prices have dropped in the past year since this president took office. It sharply contrasts with the previous administration and the Democratic Party, who seemed to undermine our domestic energy sector, relied on importing vital resources, and contributed to severe inflation.”

Levitt went on to say, “The President has been very clear…this is a short-term disruption to the United States’ long-term objective of preventing leading state sponsors of terrorism from acquiring nuclear arms. This is not only beneficial for Americans but for people across the globe. Once negotiations with Iran are successful and the Straits reopen, we anticipate a decrease in gasoline prices.”

“President Trump has built the largest economy in the world, and he’s aiming to do it again,” she asserted.

Currently, average gas prices have risen above $2.98, from $4.11 per gallon on February 28, the date when hostilities commenced. While this remains below the record high national average of $5.01 set in 2022, it still reflects a startling increase.

Though the Trump administration has rolled back many of the Biden administration’s energy policies, prices have surged since the beginning of the Iran conflict. Some experts attribute the spike in energy prices to the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. On Wednesday, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil futures were priced at $90.80, a significant climb from the closing figure of $67.02 on February 27, just before the U.S. and Israel initiated their joint military operation.

The Strait of Hormuz, which separates Iran from the Arabian Peninsula, sees about 20% of the world’s oil demand. Since the outbreak of hostilities on February 28, access to the strait has been largely restricted.