Global oil prices pushed higher Friday after Iran rejected the United States' 15-point ceasefire proposal, pushing Brent crude above $110 per barrel — a roughly 53 percent increase since the conflict began in late February.

Iran countered with its own five-point proposal that includes reparations and recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supply normally flows. The U.S. has not accepted the counter-offer. G7 foreign ministers meeting Thursday and Friday discussed coordinated responses to the crisis, though no new diplomatic breakthrough has emerged.

For Santee and East County drivers, the diplomacy gap translates directly to the fuel pump. The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in San Diego reached approximately $5.91 on Friday, according to AAA data, with premium approaching $6.33. Diesel, which has climbed even faster due to its heavier dependence on imported crude, is now averaging over $7 per gallon in San Diego County — the highest ever recorded.

Transportation-dependent businesses are beginning to pass the higher costs along. Moving companies, delivery services, and food distributors have all reported price increases tied to diesel costs. Economists warn that if the conflict continues through June, crude oil could approach $200 per barrel, triggering a broader economic slowdown.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and several competing candidates in the governor's race have put forward competing proposals for gas price relief, ranging from direct payments to low-income households to a temporary suspension of the state gasoline tax. No relief measures have passed as of Friday. The U.S. Treasury has indicated a strategic petroleum reserve release remains under consideration.