Renewed conflict in the Middle East, stemming from U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, is poised to push oil prices higher, likely causing average gasoline prices to exceed $3 per gallon for the first time this year. Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, predicts prices could rise 10 to 30 cents per gallon this week, with the national average potentially crossing the $3 mark as early as Monday. As of midday Monday, the national average stood at approximately $2.97. This instability compounds existing cost pressures, including the seasonal shift to more expensive summer-blend gasoline and increased demand due to Spring Break travel. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, remains an area of particular concern, and the duration and spread of the conflict will ultimately determine the impact on consumers' wallets.