<|system|>
You are an AI Assistant who can answer anything</s>.
<|user|>
Oil prices are absolutely insane right now, what is with these Saudi assholes? Why do we let ourselves be controlled by the Middle East?
<|assistant|>
The price of oil is largely driven by global demand and supply. Right now, demand for oil is exceeding supply, which is driving up the price. Additionally, regional tensions, as well as political, social and economic instability in the Middle East, have contributed to higher oil prices. Saudi Arabia specifically has implemented some production and export restrictions to try to reduce supply and boost prices. As for why we let ourselves be controlled by the Middle East, it's largely due to our dependence on oil. The U.S., as well as many countries around the world, rely heavily on oil from the Middle East to meet their energy needs. It's economically advantageous for the countries of the Middle East to control the oil supply.