HOUSTON — Gas prices have begun rising again as the United States completes a fifth consecutive day of missile strikes on Iranian forces. The national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline was $3.94 as of Thursday morning, ending a brief period of relief for drivers following a recent dip below $4 per gallon.

The price increase marks a reversal from last month, when the national average dropped below $4 per gallon after President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire. That drop followed a May peak of $4.63 per gallon, the highest point since the conflict with Iran began on February 28. As of July 16, the average price stands 10 cents higher than it was one week earlier, though it remains 10 cents lower than it was one month prior.

Since the war with Iran began, gas prices have risen by nearly 30%. According to a Brown University report, Americans have spent an additional $35 billion on gasoline during this period. The same report estimates the average driver is now spending about $300 more per month on fuel than before the conflict started.

The renewed spike in fuel costs directly affects household budgets across the country, particularly for Houston drivers who rely heavily on personal vehicles in a sprawling metropolitan area with limited public transit. The volatility in gas prices reflects the tight link between geopolitical military actions and energy markets.

With U.S. missile strikes extending into a fifth consecutive day, further price increases could follow, prolonging the financial burden on consumers who had only recently seen temporary relief after the June ceasefire announcement.