U.S. Consumer Prices and Inflation

A Reuters/Ipsos poll (March 17–19) finds nearly two‑thirds of Americans expect President Trump to send U.S. ground troops into the Iran war even though 55% oppose sending ground forces (7% back a large‑scale operation, 34% a limited special‑forces incursion) and just 37% approve of the fighting versus 59% who disapprove, with stark partisan splits; Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declined to rule out ground forces and Trump said March 19 he was “not putting troops anywhere” but would not disclose plans. Analysts also say the war — which has effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz and helped push oil prices up more than 40% — is raising trans‑Pacific shipping and last‑mile delivery costs that are expected to quickly trickle down to retailers and consumers.