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Mr. Chris Wright believes gasoline prices in the United States have peaked and will fall gradually, but the outlook remains elevated into next year. The drop below $3 per gallon could occur by the end of this year or next year. But prices are more likely to have peaked and begun to ease, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told CNN on April 19. He said, 'certainly once the conflict is resolved, you will see prices fall.' Gasoline prices in the United States have accelerated after fighting in the Middle East erupted. The daily average on April 19 was $4.05 per gallon ($1.07 per liter), according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). For the same period last year, the figure was only $3.16. This is putting pressure on U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of the November midterm elections, according to Reuters. The Republican Party is trying to protect its majority in the House and Senate. Americans fueling up at a gas station in Beverly Hills, California, on March 3. Photo: AP. Officials in Mr. Trump\'s administration have differed on the forecast for gasoline. Last week, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent forecast prices would hover around $3 per gallon by summer. Meanwhile, Trump has asserted prices would stay high through November. Nonetheless, all share the forecast that prices will be cheaper once the conflict ends. 'Under $3 per gallon is a very low level when adjusted for inflation. We will certainly return to that level,' Wright said. The impact of the war on oil shipping has also prompted airlines to warn of potential fuel shortages. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said jet fuel supplies will be more plentiful when the conflict with Iran cools. 'It is true there are some disruptions, hopefully only for a short period. But in the long term, Americans\' travel costs will fall thanks to lower jet fuel,' Duffy said. The ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran is expected to expire this week, as tensions in the Middle East in recent days show signs of escalation. Yesterday, Trump accused Iran of violating by attacking ships in the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend. U.S. officials are expected to travel to Pakistan on April 20 to resume talks. 'We are proposing a very fair and reasonable agreement, and I hope they will accept. If not, the United States will destroy all power plants and bridges in Iran,' Trump warned. Hà Thu (according to Reuters, CNN).
Premium gym chains are entering a “golden era” that is ending or already in decline, as rising operating costs collide with shifting consumer preferences toward more flexible, community-based ways to exercise. Long-term memberships are shrinking, margins are pressured by higher rents and facility expenses, and competition from smaller, more personalized…
