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politics

Oil Prices Increase After Trump Announces Naval Blockade on Iran

Wednesday, July 15, 2026 · 2 sources

Oil prices rose about 9% on Monday to around $83 per barrel after President Trump announced the US would reinstate a naval blockade on Iran. The move is expected to impact gasoline prices, potentially pushing the national average back toward $4 per gallon.

President Trump claimed on Monday that the US was reinstating a naval blockade on Iran, which led to a surge in oil prices. The price of oil rose about 9% to roughly $83 per barrel. This increase is attributed to the renewed hostilities over the weekend and the announcement of the blockade.

The average US price of gasoline was $3.87 per gallon on Monday morning, up about 7 cents over the past week. However, this is still far below the $4.56 per gallon reached in May. President Trump stated that the Hormuz Strait would remain open, but with the reinstatement of the Iranian blockade, only stopping Iran's ships or customers from entering or leaving.

The US will seek reimbursement at a rate of 20% on all cargo shipped for the costs of providing safety and security. Despite Trump's claim of an open strait, vessel tracking services have reported a decline in ships transiting the waterway in recent days. This includes a reduction of inbound oil tankers entering the Strait to load.

Go Deeper

What is the current price of oil?

The current price of oil is around $83 per barrel, which is a 9% increase from the previous price.

How will the naval blockade affect gasoline prices?

The naval blockade is expected to push the national average gasoline price back toward $4 per gallon.

What is the Hormuz Strait and why is it important?

The Hormuz Strait is a vital waterway for oil transportation, and its closure or blockade can significantly impact global oil prices and supply.

How will the US reimburse itself for the costs of the blockade?

The US will seek reimbursement at a rate of 20% on all cargo shipped for the costs of providing safety and security.

What is the impact of the blockade on ship traffic in the Hormuz Strait?

Vessel tracking services have reported a decline in ships transiting the waterway in recent days, including a reduction of inbound oil tankers entering the Strait to load.