The Globe and Mail reports in its Tuesday, July 14, edition that the passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed due to ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran. A New York Times dispatch to The Globe reports that gas prices will depend not only on oil flows from the Persian Gulf but also on decisions made by China. China, the world's largest oil importer, significantly cut purchases this spring, reducing demand and preventing oil prices from rising further during the war. A key question in the market is when China will increase its oil purchases. Delays in buying could lead to lower oil prices, while increased demand would likely raise prices. Columbia University's Karen Young says, "Where Chinese demand goes is really the most important piece of the puzzle." The Russia-Ukraine war has caused wholesale diesel prices to spike after Russia banned overseas diesel sales to secure domestic supplies. Additionally, Ukrainian drone attacks have damaged Russian oil refineries, restricting fuel production. Wholesale fuel prices generally foreshadow changes in consumer prices at gas stations, where diesel averaged $4.88 (U.S.) a gallon on Monday, up 2.5 per cent from a week earlier.