The leading U.S. crude oil posted a slight gain and inched closer to the $20-a-barrel level.

"U.S. oil and natural gas production has increased, while imports of foreign oil have decreased."

What makes the situation even worse is that U.S. oil stockpiles and inventories have virtually dried up.

Gasiorowski further states "the major U.S. oil companies were not interested in Iran at this time.

Japan was dependent on U.S. oil, and it was thought at the time that such would be a provocative step.

With U.S. oil supplies the highest since 1990, gas reached $3.57 on June 5.

Prices of the leading U.S. crude oil dropped below $20 a barrel for the first time in two months.

Houston dominates U.S. oil and gas exploration and production.

By doing nothing to lower U.S. oil consumption, we are financing both sides in the war on terrorism and strengthening the worst governments in the world.

Even a rumor that a hedge fund is in trouble and was liquidating positions can cause the price of U.S. crude oil to fall.