Revision History

California gas prices have surged past $5.20 per gallon as the U.S.-Israel war on Iran, which began on February 28, 2026, has effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz and triggered the largest oil supply disruption in history. The crisis is compounded by California's unique regulatory environment and recent refinery closures, with analysts warning prices could reach $7-8 per gallon if the conflict persists, threatening a broader economic downturn across the American Southwest and beyond.