U.S. Gasoline Prices Climb Back Above $4 Per Gallon

U.S. gasoline prices have moved back above $4 per gallon, with AAA reporting a national average of $4.0030 on July 20, up from $3.8720 a week earlier. The increase is being driven by a sharp crude oil rally tied to renewed Middle East hostilities, including attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and escalating U.S.-Iran military exchanges. Oil prices rose 16% last week, and the article suggests this has quickly fed through into retail fuel costs. The move is notable because gasoline had been declining for eight straight weeks before the recent reversal. The story points to continued upside pressure on fuel prices if supply disruptions around Hormuz persist, implying a broader inflationary impact for consumers and energy markets.