Kevin Hassett, the National Economic Council director, has warned investors not to count on temporary increases in gas prices due to the Iran campaign, which he believes will "hurt consumers" but is necessary to confront Iran and stabilize the Middle East. Hassett's comments contrasted with the Energy Information Administration's prediction that gas prices would return to "normal" within a few months, despite the EIA's own forecast of such a change. The EIA now expects average U.S. retail gasoline prices to be around $3.34 per gallon in 2026 and $3.,18 in 2027, including taxes. Despite this, Hassett acknowledged that higher fuel costs would “hurt consumer” but argued that it was necessary for U.K. military objectives in Iran.