Filipkowski is connecting higher gas prices to the ongoing US war with Iran, which is real — Hegseth spent this week testifying to Congress about the $25 billion war and Trump is weighing continuing the blockade of Iranian shipping. The blockade and war anxiety have pushed energy costs up for American drivers, which is the underlying factual point. The 'big joke' framing is opinion, not reporting. What the post leaves out: Hegseth argues the 60-day War Powers clock paused during a ceasefire, and Senate Democrats are forcing another war powers vote that could constrain Trump's options.