US Held Hostage by Oil Dependence on Middle East

The United States' dependence on Middle Eastern oil has been a long-standing issue, with various administrations pledging to reduce it. However, the problem persists due to a mismatch between American and Middle Eastern crude types.

While the US primarily produces light, sweet crude from shale formations, the Middle East supplies heavier, higher-sulfur crude. The US's old refineries are not equipped to process this heavier crude, making it difficult to transition away from Middle Eastern oil.

President Trump has suggested tapping into the North Sea's rich oil and gas reserves, which could boost the UK economy. However, environmental concerns and the shift towards renewable energy have hindered progress on building new refineries in the US.

Iran is currently holding the US over an 'oil barrel,' betting that a Democratic majority in Congress will deny funds for targeting their country. Iran's economy is struggling, but the ayatollahs are willing to sacrifice their people's well-being for their own power.