Consumer inflation in the United States reached 3.8% year-on-year in April, marking the highest rate in three years, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This increase from 3.3% in March is largely attributed to soaring energy prices, which rose by 17.9% due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil and gas. Food prices also saw an increase of 3.2% compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, the core consumer price index (CPI), which excludes the more volatile food and energy sectors, rose to 2.8% from 2.6% in March. The persistent inflation has put pressure on US consumers and raised concerns among policymakers, with the Federal Reserve indicating that interest rate hikes may be necessary to restore price stability, as the long-term inflation target remains at 2%.