On Monday, President Trump claimed that disruptions at oil refineries, rather than Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are causing the increase in gas prices. He explained in a post on Truth Social that the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Israeli forces with Iran is not the main influence.
Trump stated that the barriers to refineries are due to attacks by Ukraine on Russian refineries and closures in Democratic-led states like California. These statements aimed at blaming Democratic leaders were posted on his social platform.
Gulf Oil’s chief petroleum analyst, Tom Kloza, commented on Trump’s claim. He acknowledged that the Russia-Ukraine conflict contributes to high prices but noted that oil from the Persian Gulf has surged to $33 per barrel from $1.75 in February. This increase includes insurance, freight, and various risk premiums. Kloza mentioned attacks on vessels in the strait that heighten these premiums, keeping prices elevated despite consistent crude supply from the region.
Trump’s post followed a previous one about Ukrainian operations striking Russian infrastructure, which he claims has destabilized Russia’s diesel industry. He mentioned Russia’s significant oil refining loss after speaking with President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry confirmed disabling over half of Russia’s refining capacity, causing a severe fuel crisis since earlier this year.
Both the Russian and Iranian conflicts have disrupted global energy markets. Despite these tensions, Trump urged initiatives to cease Russia’s war in Ukraine. Though Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has contributed to a national average gas price nearing $4.50, the average stood at $4.37 as of Monday, with diesel hitting $6.53 according to AAA data.
U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner have been negotiating to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, exploring deals that might involve significant investments by Middle Eastern businesses linked to U.S. negotiators.
The rising gas prices pose a political challenge with upcoming midterm elections. Republican figures are increasingly pushing for resolutions to these conflicts, associating high gas prices with the Iran situation.
Reporting contributions were provided by Rachel Frazin. © 2026 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. This content may not be redistributed without permission.