Middle East Conflict Sends Idaho Gas Prices Soaring

Idaho drivers are facing skyrocketing gas prices as the conflict in the Middle East escalates, threatening global oil supply routes.

The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Idaho hit $4.23 on Friday, up 18 cents from a week ago and a steep 75 cents from a year ago, according to AAA Idaho.

This increase has pushed Idaho to 12th place nationally for the most expensive gas, surpassing the U.S. average of $4.10 per gallon.

The spike in prices is attributed to two main flashpoints: oil tankers struggling to navigate the Strait of Hormuz and Houthi rebels attempting to block Saudi Arabian oil shipments through the Bab al-Mandab Strait.