BOISE, ID — Drivers across Idaho are seeing higher prices at the pump this week as global tensions in the Middle East impact oil markets. According to AAA, the average price for a gallon of regular in Idaho is now $3.38 — an increase of nine cents from last week and seven cents from a month ago. Despite the rise, Idahoans are still paying about 19 cents less than they were at this time last year.

Nationally, the average price stands at $3.22 per gallon, up eight cents from a week ago but still 23 cents cheaper than a year ago.

“We’re still faring better than a year ago, but the margin is shrinking,” said AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Any time geopolitical tensions make the market jumpy, we risk seeing higher prices for crude oil. Add in the beginning of summer travel, and you’re looking at a one-two punch that is driving prices higher at the pump.”

The West Texas Intermediate benchmark for crude oil is currently near $70 per barrel, about $8 more than a month ago. Prices briefly approached $74 late last week before easing slightly. Continued instability in the Middle East or disruptions to the global supply chain could lead to further increases.

Idaho ranks as the eighth most expensive state for fuel, behind California, Hawaii, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Alaska, and Illinois. Among Idaho cities, Coeur d’Alene currently has the highest average price at $3.43 per gallon, followed by Lewiston at $3.40.

Gas prices across Idaho as of June 23:

• Boise: $3.32
• Coeur d’Alene: $3.43
• Franklin: $3.23
• Idaho Falls: $3.32
• Lewiston: $3.40
• Pocatello: $3.36
• Rexburg: $3.33
• Twin Falls: $3.37