Global Fuel Prices Surge Amid US-Iran Tensions
Rising global fuel prices driven by US-Iran tensions have triggered emergency government actions in the United States and price hikes in South Africa.
Global fuel prices are rising due to supply shortages, uncertainty over oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz, and tensions between the United States and Iran. In the United States, diesel prices reached a record national average of $6.52 per gallon on September 22, 2026, creating significant financial strain for Midwest farmers during the harvest season.
To mitigate these costs, Governors in several states took emergency measures. Kelly Armstrong of North Dakota and Jim Pillen of Nebraska issued orders expanding the use of lower-tax dyed diesel for agricultural operations. Larry Rhoden of South Dakota signed an executive order allowing farmers to exceed weight restrictions when hauling commodities, while Greg Gianforte of Montana issued a waiver for hours-of-service limitations for fuel transporters.
On a federal level, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration waived hours-of-service limitations for motor carriers transporting gas and diesel through December 16. Internationally, the impact is similarly widespread; South Africa's Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources announced price increases for petrol, diesel, and illuminating paraffin effective October 7, 2026.
