Oil prices have risen sharply around the world , easing gasoline costs for U.S. drivers . This is a critical but not a quick fix , given the scale of global oil consumption and the technological challenges involved . Sharon Burke : Be careful what you wish for ; lower prices can have a downside . She says they could foster instability in countries like Iraq and Iran that are dependent on oil . Burke : Some oil - producing countries will have trouble paying bills if it stays below $ 80 .
Oil prices have risen sharply around the world , easing gasoline costs for U.S. drivers . Sharon Burke : Be careful what you wish for ; lower prices can have a downside . She says they could foster instability in countries like Iraq and Iran that are dependent on oil . Burke : Some oil - producing countries will have trouble paying bills if it stays below $ 80 .