Oil prices jumped Monday after the United States carried out airstrikes and Iran retaliated, according to the Associated Press, putting renewed pressure on energy markets after a brief period of calmer prices.

AP reported that Brent crude rose 3.4% to $77.72 per barrel as of midday in Europe, while U.S. benchmark crude climbed 3.5% to $72.92. The moves followed renewed fighting tied to the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.

For Santee drivers, the immediate question is whether the oil move shows up at the pump. AAA listed the San Diego metro average for regular gas at $5.444 per gallon on July 13, up from $5.420 a week earlier but still below the $5.780 average from a month ago.

Gas prices do not move in lockstep with crude oil every day, and Monday's AAA data did not yet show a sharp local spike. But sustained disruption or higher oil prices can feed into wholesale fuel costs, especially in California, where fuel prices are already among the highest in the country.

Residents planning commutes, summer trips or small-business deliveries should watch prices over the next several days. If the conflict cools, the impact may be limited; if energy markets keep climbing, San Diego County drivers could feel it quickly.