National average price for gas hits $4 per gallon

(NBC, KYMA) - Gas prices are on the rise again. According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of gas has again reached $4 dollars per gallon.

As the renewed conflict with Iran rattles energy markets.

It's the first time that the national average has been at $4 or higher since June 17.

Gas prices had fallen in recent weeks to as low as $3.79 on July 7 and 8, but have trended higher again over the last two weeks as Washington and Tehran exchange daily attacks in a battle over the crucial Strait of Hormuz.

Since the start of the year, U.S. Crude and Brent oil prices have now risen about 45%.

On Thursday, just eight ships crossed the strait. A stark drop from the average of 130 ships crossing the strait every day before the war started.