A motorist in Los Angeles, California, has expressed strong criticism over rising fuel prices following recent geopolitical tensions linked to a US-led military escalation involving Iran and Israel.
Ryder Thomas, 28, was refuelling his pickup truck at a petrol station in Los Angeles when he spoke to media outlets about the increasing cost of fuel. He stated that filling his tank cost him 130 US dollars, approximately 30 dollars more than before the conflict involving Iran and the United States intensified.
Thomas said: “I am as angry about the fuel prices as I am confused about why they are rising. Trump is an idiot, nothing more.”
The rise in fuel prices has been attributed to disruptions following a series of military and diplomatic developments. On 28 February, the United States and Israel carried out coordinated strikes on Iran. Iran responded with counterattacks, leading to further escalation across the region. Iranian forces subsequently targeted Israeli and United States military bases and installations across the Middle East, contributing to broader regional instability.
During the escalation, the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes—was closed, significantly affecting global energy supply chains. This waterway is responsible for transporting around one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply.
After 39 days of continued conflict, the United States and Iran agreed to a temporary ceasefire lasting two weeks, which came into effect on 8 April. On 11 April, diplomatic talks between Iran and the United States were held in Islamabad, Pakistan, but these discussions did not result in an agreement.
Following the expiry of the temporary ceasefire, US President Donald Trump announced an extension of the truce on an indefinite basis, reportedly without formal agreement from all parties. Efforts to resume negotiations through Pakistan as a mediator have continued, although Iran has not agreed to participate in a second round of talks at the time of reporting.
The disruption to negotiations and continued uncertainty have coincided with a sharp increase in crude oil prices globally. In California, fuel prices have risen significantly, with average costs exceeding 6 US dollars per gallon, compared to approximately 4.50 US dollars prior to the escalation.
Fuel price comparison
| Category |
Before escalation |
After escalation |
| Average petrol price (California, per gallon) |
$4.50 |
Over $6.00 |
| Vehicle refuelling cost (Ryder Thomas) |
Approx. $100 |
$130 |
| Share of global oil transit through Strait of Hormuz |
Normal flow |
Disrupted due to closure |
The increase in fuel costs has also raised concerns about broader inflationary pressure, particularly on food, clothing, and other essential goods, as transportation and production costs rise.
Public reaction in California has been mixed. David Chavez, a cameraman waiting at a fuel station queue, said he does not place direct blame on any single party. A former Democratic supporter who voted for Donald Trump in the previous election, Chavez cited dissatisfaction with economic and immigration policies under the Biden administration as his reason for changing political support.
However, Chavez also suggested that oil companies may be contributing to price increases through market behaviour, while expressing some disappointment with the current situation.
The rising cost of living has particularly affected lower and middle-income households. Flo, a 73-year-old retiree, said she has reduced her driving due to increased fuel costs. She explained that her pension is now largely consumed by rent, leaving limited disposable income.
Flo said: “Life was already difficult, but now it has become even harder.”
Public opinion polls referenced in reports indicate that a majority of Americans do not support the ongoing military engagement linked to the crisis, with economic concerns increasingly influencing domestic sentiment.
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