President Donald Trump publicly disagreed with his Energy Secretary Chris Wright on Monday, calling Wright's prediction about persistently high gas prices 'totally wrong.'

Wright appeared on CNN's 'State of the Union' on Sunday and told host Jake Tapper that gasoline prices below $3 a gallon 'could happen later this year, but that might not happen until next year.' He added that prices have 'likely peaked' and will decline, particularly 'with a resolution of this conflict.'

In a phone interview with The Hill, Trump responded directly to Wright's assessment, stating, 'No, I think he’s wrong on that. Totally wrong.' Trump predicted prices would fall 'as soon as this ends,' referring to the ongoing war with Iran.

The dispute comes amid elevated fuel costs driven by the conflict that began when the U.S. and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran has restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil chokepoint, contributing to global supply concerns. The U.S. has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports, which Trump described as 'very powerful' and costing Iran $500 million daily.

According to AAA, the national average price for regular gasoline stood at $4.04 per gallon on Monday, up from $3.15 a year earlier and the highest since 2022. Oil benchmarks reflected the tension, with Brent crude around $94 per barrel and West Texas Intermediate near $88.

Wright's remarks contrasted with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's prediction last week that prices could reach the $3 range this summer. The administration has emphasized U.S. energy production, noting the country is a net exporter despite the disruptions.

Diplomatic efforts continue, with Vice President JD Vance scheduled to lead a U.S. delegation to Islamabad for talks involving Pakistani and Iranian negotiators. Pakistan's army chief recently raised concerns about the blockade hindering negotiations, though Trump clarified that no specific recommendations were made.

Trump campaigned in 2024 on lowering energy costs, promising gasoline below $2 per gallon through expanded domestic output. Wright, sworn in as the 17th Energy Secretary in February 2025, has overseen policy shifts promoting fossil fuels.