US Temporarily Waives Jones Act to Ease Energy Costs Amid Middle East Tensions

Washington D.C. US President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that a centuries-old maritime shipping law has been temporarily waived to mitigate rising energy costs following the escalation of the Middle East into a war zone due to the US-Israel attack on Iran.

President Trump's move to issue a 60-day waiver for the Jones Act will lift restrictions imposed on foreign-flagged vessels transporting cargo through US ports during this period.

The 1920 law was intended to promote American shipbuilding. Critics have argued that it hinders free trade and increases costs for consumers.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated in a release, signaling the joint US-Israel attack against Iran on February 28, that Trump's latest step is aimed at mitigating short-term disruptions in the oil market as US forces advance toward the objective of 'Operation Epic Fury.'

"This action will allow essential resources such as oil, natural gas, fertilizer, and coal to flow freely into US ports for sixty days," Leavitt added.

She noted that the Trump administration remains committed to strengthening 'its critical supply chains.' According to data from the 'AAA' motor group, the price of US gasoline has increased by more than 27 percent since the conflict began.