How the rise in gas prices is affecting students at Delta
By Emma Brown
The ongoing war with Iran has caused prices of everyday necessities, like petroleum, to skyrocket. The United States and Israel initiated the conflict with Iran on Feb. 28, 2026, by bombing the country’s capital amidst ongoing civil conflict in the country. Since then, the number of cross-border attacks has only increased, and the price of gasoline has risen with them, for two reasons.
After the initial attack killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the country closed off the Strait of Hormuz, a key passageway for transporting a significant amount of the world’s crude oil. The gasoline demand worldwide remained the same; however, its availability plummeted, causing inflation to rise and boost prices.
Cost-push inflation occurs when the demand for a good stays the same, but production and material costs rise, causing the good’s overall price to climb. Everyone who uses gasoline-powered vehicles for transportation is affected by the rise in gas prices, regardless of demographics, though some groups may struggle more.
For example, college students especially feel the strain when gas prices increase as they balance multiple, often minimum-wage jobs and extracurricular activities on top of classes. The majority of community college students also have a significant commute, regardless of whether they live with their parents.
When asked how the rise in gas prices has affected him, Delta student Kenyan Abraham said, “Unless it’s something that I really need, I’m not really gonna go out of my way to drive.” Abraham also showed concern about his plans for the summer after classes get out, saying, “I don’t wanna constantly think about having gas prices on my conscience.”
Another student, Kelly Stender, said, “I always set aside enough money (for gas), but I’ve noticed in the last month when I fill up my tank, I paid like seven dollars more than I have before.” When asked what she’s been doing differently since the price of gas has risen, Stender stated, “I’m not driving as much anymore.”
Although the rise in gas prices is shocking and can negatively affect people’s quality of life, it’s important to put it in perspective compared to the other impacts of war.
For example, the Iranians fear being killed by their government for speaking their minds, as hundreds of thousands have already been. The Palestinians worry about whether or not they’ll eat for the day, or if their tent will flood and be destroyed in the night. All of this while constantly fearing the U.S. and Israel’s bombardment.
It’s dark, and it’s drab, but it is our reality. With what’s happening around the world right now, it’s easy to feel helpless, but it’s important to know that you aren’t. Educate yourself, talk to those around you, pay attention to the news and call or email the state legislature. By using your voice, your rights as a U.S. citizen, you can demand the change you wish to see in the world, even if it’s not right in your backyard.