By Blessing Nweke
The Trump administration has issued a temporary 60-day waiver of the Jones Act, allowing foreign-flagged vessels to transport fuel, fertilizer and other critical goods between U.S. ports. The move highlights mounting economic pressure as conflict with Iran disrupts global trade and drives fuel prices higher.
The century-old law typically requires goods moved between U.S. ports to be carried on American-built, flagged and owned ships. Officials say the waiver is intended to ease supply chain bottlenecks and stabilize energy markets during ongoing military operations tied to “Operation Epic Fury.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the decision aims to “mitigate short-term disruptions” and ensure vital resources continue flowing. Industry groups, including the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers, welcomed the move, calling it necessary for flexibility amid volatile conditions.
However, critics such as the American Maritime Partnership warned the waiver could undermine domestic shipping jobs if misused.
Tensions escalated further after Israel struck Iran’s portion of the South Pars gas field, the world’s largest. Iran later launched a ballistic missile that Qatar said caused extensive damage to a major gas facility, raising fears of broader regional energy disruption.
President Donald Trump said the U.S. had no prior knowledge of the Israeli strike and described Iran’s attack on Qatar as “unjustified.” He warned that any further aggression could trigger a massive U.S. response targeting the entire South Pars field.
Despite the threat, Trump signaled reluctance to escalate further, citing long-term consequences, while maintaining that the U.S. would act decisively if necessary.
Original article
Comments