U.S. inflation accelerates to 3.8% year-over-year, driven by soaring energy prices linked to the Iran conflict. Energy costs have spiked sharply since the U.S. escalated hostilities, pushing consumer prices to their fastest rise in nearly three years. Meanwhile, productivity gains fail to offset wage stagnation, leaving workers with the lowest income share on record. Tomatoes surge 40% due to weather disruptions, tariffs, and transportation bottlenecks, while airline fares also rise. Pentagon war costs balloon to $29 billion, with classified reports revealing Iran’s expanded missile capabilities near critical shipping routes.

President Trump dismisses economic concerns, prioritizing nuclear deterrence over domestic hardship.