Boston, Massachusetts – Saturday — Drivers across New England could soon see higher gas prices after U.S. military strikes on Iran rattled global oil markets and raised concerns about supply disruptions in the Middle East.
Energy analysts are closely monitoring the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway bordering Iran through which roughly 20% of the world’s petroleum supply passes. Any threat to tanker traffic in that corridor can send crude oil prices sharply higher within hours.
While New England does not rely directly on Middle Eastern crude for most of its fuel, gasoline prices in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont are tied to global oil benchmarks. When crude prices climb, wholesale gasoline costs in the Northeast typically follow.
The White House said the strikes targeted Iranian military infrastructure following reported threats to U.S. forces in the region. Markets are now focused on whether Iran could respond in ways that affect shipping lanes or regional production.
If crude futures surge when trading opens, drivers in Boston, Hartford, Providence, Portland, Manchester, and Burlington could see increases at the pump within days, depending on refinery capacity and inventory levels.
Commuters, small business owners, delivery drivers, and families planning weekend travel may feel the impact first as regional fuel distributors adjust pricing.
Energy experts say volatility could remain elevated if tensions persist, with additional market movement expected as global trading resumes.
