Slow summertime fuel prices are out the window as tension between Israel and Iran strengthens

Across the globe, geopolitical events are hitting U.S. farmers where it hurts: fuel.

Tension between Israel and Iran has the oil markets spooked. Energy analysts were predicting a slow summer for fuel prices, but those estimates are gone.

The national average for a gallon of diesel has gone up $0.04 over the last week, holding around $3.48, but increases are not likely to stop there. GasBuddy’s Patrick DeHaan says diesel could climb $0.15-$0.25 per gallon in the coming days.

Related Stories
Farm Bureau Economist Dr. Faith Parum warns farmers to brace for more losses as the war in Iran sends shockwaves through the ag economy and raises input costs even further.
Fewer DEF-related shutdowns could mean more uptime during planting and harvest seasons.
Consumer spending continues, but value-focused buying is on the rise.
Higher energy activity likely keeps fuel and fertilizer costs elevated.
Rising fuel costs will soon increase grain transportation expenses.
At the White House’s “Celebration of Agriculture,” the Trump Administration announced a slate of policies to support farmers and ranchers, including biofuel mandates, SBA loan programs, and new labeling policies to boost domestic markets for ag products.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

USMEF CEO Dan Halstrom joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report for his analysis on the U.S.-Taiwan trade agreement, which includes big bucks for U.S. Beef.
Record U.S. sorghum crop faces weak demand as China slashes imports, while corn farmers warn of rising costs, shrinking margins, and global market pressures.
Fewer cattle on feed suggest smaller slaughter numbers this winter, which could support strong prices if beef demand holds firm.
Dairy farmers are expected to face strong output and export gains, but lower prices and tighter margins will persist into next year.
With the latest detection just across the border, animal health officials on both sides are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak before it spreads further north.
Producers and processors should watch trade policy closely as tariff impacts ripple through seafood markets.