Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called on President Trump to immediately release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve as oil prices have risen due to military conflict involving Iran.

Oil prices jumped to nearly $120 per barrel before declining on Monday following missile strikes and retaliatory actions in the region. The price volatility has raised concerns about impacts on American consumers at gas pumps.

Schumer's request represents a shift in position, as Fox News noted the Democratic leader had previously blocked Trump administration efforts to fill the nation's oil reserves. The Strategic Petroleum Reserve was significantly drawn down during the Biden administration.

The Strategic Petroleum Reserve serves as the nation's emergency oil stockpile, designed to be tapped during supply disruptions or other crises that threaten energy security. Presidential authorization is required to release oil from the reserve.

Trump has not yet responded publicly to Schumer's request. The administration would need to weigh factors including current reserve levels, the severity of price increases, and potential effectiveness of a release in stabilizing markets.