<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Diesel prices have reached an all-time high as conflicts in Iran and Ukraine disrupt global fuel supplies.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">On September 4, 2026, the average price of diesel in the United States was reported at $5.85 per gallon, exceeding the previous record of $5.81 per gallon set in May 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The national average was $5.29 per gallon last month and $3.70 a year ago, according to AAA.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The increase in diesel prices reflects the impact of the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine on the global supply chain.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Earlier this summer, Russia halted its diesel exports, with plans to extend the ban through September. There have been discussions about potentially extending the ban until the end of the year, as reported by Reuters.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Russia typically accounts for one in nine barrels of diesel produced globally, according to GasBuddy analyst Patrick De Haan. Additionally, Russian refineries have sustained damage from Ukrainian drone strikes.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Refineries in the Middle East have also been damaged, and the conflict in Iran has disrupted fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Consequently, global oil prices have increased as shipping routes have been affected.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">U.S. refineries have increased their diesel production to mitigate supply chain disruptions, operating at 97% of their capacity.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Diesel is essential for the economy, powering trains, trucks, and heavy machinery. It is also critical for the agricultural sector, fueling farm equipment.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Diesel fuel accounts for 3% to 5% of the costs for U.S. farmers producing wheat, corn, and other major crops.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) commented on social media, stating, “Diesel fuels our supply chains and powers our farms and food production. Even if you don’t use diesel, those higher costs get passed on to you, making the food on your table more expensive.”</p>