PORTLAND (AP) — AAA Oregon says the average price of a gallon of unleaded gas in Oregon rose 6.5 cents last week to $1.81, the first increase in more than three months.

The organization says the national average was up 7 cents to $1.69 due in part to the surge in fighting in the Gaza Strip and some optimism for economic recovery.

Oregon prices still are near their lowest in about five years and less than half the record prices of six months ago.

AAA says prices may drop in the coming weeks, depending on conditions in the Gaza Strip and economic data.

In Portland, the average price was $1.80; in Salem, $1.77; in Eugene/Springfield, $1.84 and in Medford/Ashland, $1.91 a gallon.

Oregon has the country’s 12th highest prices.