Most of us feel it at the pump before we see it in the news. When gas prices go up, every other part of life gets harder to buy.

WHAT HAPPENED

Prices across the country rose by 4.2 percent last month. This is the highest they have been in three years.

The main reason is the war with Iran. The fighting has made oil hard to get and costly to move.

Gas prices jumped 7 percent in just one month. This is a big blow to the White House as they try to keep the economy steady.

WHAT THE EVIDENCE SHOWS

Inflation hit 4.2 percent in May.

• Gas prices rose by 7 percent in 30 days.
• This is a three-year high for U.S. price hikes.
• Fuel costs are the main reason for the rise.
• War is slowing down how goods move around the world.

THE BIGGER QUESTION

We often talk about war in terms of maps and soldiers. But how much of our own peace of mind are we willing to trade for global fights?

If this war lasts all year, will the average family have to choose between fuel and food? We should ask if there is a plan to protect our money if the fighting does not stop.

WHAT HAPPENS NOW

Expect to see higher prices on store shelves for a while. As long as the fighting goes on, shipping and fuel will stay pricey.

This puts pressure on leaders to find a way to end the war. If they cannot, the cost of living will keep climbing for regular people.

WHAT WE STILL DON'T KNOW

How high will gas prices go if the war gets worse?

• Will the government use more oil from its own tanks to help?
• When will the fighting with Iran actually end?