War Overseas Affects Wallets in Virginia As Gas Prices Rise

Gas prices across Virginia are rising sharply as tensions tied to the ongoing conflict involving Iran continue to ripple through global oil markets.

According to GasBuddy, the average price for a gallon of gas in Virginia has climbed to $3.51 — up about 20 cents from last week and 68 cents higher than a month ago.

Analysts say the spike is largely being driven by global factors rather than local supply issues. Morgan Dean with AAA notes that crude oil prices play a dominant role in what drivers ultimately pay at the pump.

“About 60% of the price we pay at the pump here as U.S. drivers is directly related to the price of crude oil,” Dean said. “So when crude oil prices go up, pump prices go up.”

The recent surge is closely tied to disruptions in the Middle East, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz — a critical shipping route for global oil. Ongoing conflict has limited tanker traffic through the region, tightening supply and pushing crude prices higher worldwide.

Even though the United States does not rely heavily on oil imports from that region, global pricing means Virginia drivers are still feeling the impact.

Experts say it remains unclear how long prices will continue to rise, with future costs largely dependent on how the conflict evolves and when normal shipping through the Strait resumes.