The conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran begun on February 28, after the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran, killing their Supreme leader, Ali Khamenei. This spiked prices of gasoline to the highest they’ve been in two and a half years, impacting not only adults, but student drivers as well.
According to WIBC, the previous average price of gas per pump in Indiana was $2.77 last month but currently stands at $3.98. This increase comes after both the U.S. and Israel attacked the Strait of Hormuz, the waterway in which 20% of the world’s oil passes through. Currently, only non-hostile ships not affiliated with the U.S. or Israel are allowed to pass through the waterway.
Many student drivers already face tight budgeting as they only work part time jobs. At Griffith, student drivers feel directly impacted by this increase in price. Kayla Bell, senior and student driver, explained what she does to prevent spending extra money on gas. “Ever since prices have gone up, I just have not been driving as much.” She also expressed how this concerns her for her future, as if prices continue to increase, it will only be more of a challenge to pay for gas.
To further address concerns, senior Nicholas Grahovac said, “Instead of letting my gas go to half a tank, whenever it is at 3 quarters I fill up. That way, I don’t have to spend as much money.” Grahovac also explained how using economy mode is essential to saving gas usage.
In attempt to regulate gas prices, the U.S. Treasury temporarily lifted sanctions on Iranian oil to prevent potential harm for US businesses and consumers. However, prices remain high and student drivers are just one of the affected groups.
To date, the average price of regular gas in Griffith is at $3.78 per gallon as of today even with the Indiana gas tax holiday suspending 17 cents per gallon through the month of April. Experts are predicting another 7% increase in the coming days.
