Pump Prices Pinch Budgets
U.S. drivers are reducing their fuel consumption in response to rising gasoline prices fueled by the ongoing war in Iran, impacting household budgets across the country. With pump prices exceeding $4, March saw the first year-over-year decline in gasoline demand since 2020. The rising cost of fuel is directly affecting everyday expenses for millions of Americans, leading to measurable cutbacks in real miles driven.
Voices of Concern Rise
Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned the war in Iran, criticizing the "delusion of omnipotence" that he believes is fueling the conflict. During a prayer vigil at St. Peter's Basilica on Saturday, Pope Leo appeared to address President Trump directly, denouncing military actions that "some adults proudly boast about." The Pope's criticism follows his earlier statement that Trump's threat to destroy Iranian civilization was "truly unacceptable."
Religious Leaders Weigh In
Leading U.S. cardinals, including Chicago's Cardinal Blase Cupich and Washington's Cardinal Robert McElroy, have echoed Pope Leo's criticism of the Iran war. Cupich called it "sickening" to treat "a real war with real death and real suffering like it's a video game." McElroy has questioned the war's legitimacy under Catholic teaching, warning it does not meet "just war" standards. Bishop Steven Biegler of the Diocese of Cheyenne, Wyoming, has also attacked the Trump administration's immigration policies.
White House Responds
The White House has rejected claims of a clash with the Vatican, emphasizing cooperation and defending President Trump's policies. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that "all of President Trump's foreign policy actions have made the world safer, more stable, and more prosperous." Kelly added that "Catholic Americans resoundingly supported President Trump in 2024, and the President's administration has a positive relationship with the Vatican."
Diplomacy Attempts Continue
Vice President JD Vance, senior envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner met with Iranian leaders in Pakistan for face-to-face talks on Saturday, according to a senior U.S. official. The U.S. and Iran engaged in marathon negotiations with Pakistan, taking their second break after 14 hours. Iranian state media reported that "some differences remain."
Global Impact Expands
The war in Iran is creating economic ripples worldwide, prompting nations to take action to secure essential resources. Australia has established a government working group with the fertilizer industry to safeguard urea supplies. Zambia’s cabinet has approved a revised budget for 2026 to address revenue pressures arising from the conflict.
