Trump temporarily lifts ship rule to keep oil flowing

President Trump has announced a 60‑day pause on the Jones Act, an old law that requires U. S. ships and crews for domestic cargo moves. The waiver is aimed at speeding the flow of oil, gas, fertilizer and coal into American ports while military operations in the Middle East continue. The move comes as tensions rise around the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint that handles about 20 % of global oil traffic. Iran’s threat to block shipping there has pushed prices above $100 a barrel. Supporters of the law say it protects national security and keeps foreign vessels out, while also sustaining U. S. shipyards. Critics argue the 1920s rule is outdated and raises costs for American businesses. They warn that the temporary waiver could be misused, pushing U. S. workers and firms out of the market. The American Maritime Partnership has urged that every ship using the exemption be publicly reported and justified under federal law.

The government insists the waiver will not affect gasoline prices. The partnership also stated that any domestic shipping impact on fuel costs would be less than a penny per gallon. Meanwhile, Trump has called on NATO allies to step up their involvement in securing the Strait of Hormuz. The president’s social media post hinted that without allied support, the U. S. might face serious future risks. The Jones Act has been lifted before during major disasters, such as Hurricanes Katrina (2005) and Harvey and Irma (2017). This latest exemption marks a rare political decision to override a long‑standing maritime rule in response to an international security threat. The temporary change will remain in effect for two months, after which the law will resume its original requirements.

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