White House Scrambles for Energy Solutions Amid Iran Conflict

The White House is urging federal agencies to propose solutions for rising energy prices due to the Iran conflict. The potential for higher gasoline costs poses political risks for the Trump administration amid upcoming midterm elections. Various strategies, including flexible environmental regulations, are under consideration.

The White House is intensifying its efforts to combat surging energy prices driven by the Iran conflict, signaling concern over the efficacy of current measures, sources reveal. Senior officials have directed the departments of Energy, Transportation, and Treasury, along with the Environmental Protection Agency, to generate policy options that President Donald Trump could enforce without Congress's approval.

This directive indicates that the White House is bracing for the possibility of taking more drastic action if oil and gas prices keep rising. Political analysts warn that increased gasoline prices could affect Trump and the Republican Party in November's midterm elections, which could impact control of Congress.

U.S. and global crude oil futures exceeded $90 a barrel with U.S. prices surging over 12% due to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid U.S.-Israeli hostilities with Iran. As gasoline prices in the country soar, reaching unprecedented levels since late 2024, cautious White House officials weigh the risks associated with market intervention to prevent a backlash and market instability.