18.03.2026 19:46
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced that they have implemented a 60-day exemption to the Jones Act, which requires the use of American ships for transporting goods between U.S. ports, in order to alleviate short-term disruptions in the oil market.
The war in the Middle East, which began with the attacks of the US and Israel on Iran, continues on its 19th day, while Washington has made a notable decision to alleviate the problems caused by Tehran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
60-DAY WAIVER White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced on her social media account that they have implemented a 60-day waiver for the Jones Act, which requires the use of American ships for the transportation of goods between US ports, in order to alleviate short-term disruptions in the oil market.
Karoline Leavitt Leavitt stated, "The decision by President Donald Trump to grant a 60-day waiver for the Jones Act is another step towards alleviating short-term disruptions in the oil market while the US military continues to achieve the objectives of Operation Epic Fury."
The US spokesperson noted that this measure would allow vital resources such as oil, natural gas, fertilizers, and coal to reach US ports freely for 60 days, emphasizing the Trump administration's determination to continue strengthening critical supply chains.
Leavitt had explained last week that the White House was considering waiving the Jones Act for a certain period, but that this step was not yet definitive.
WHAT IS THE JONES ACT? The Jones Act requires that maritime transportation between two ports in the US be conducted only by ships that are built in the US, fly the US flag, and have a majority of their crew as US citizens.
During periods of major crises such as hurricanes, wars, or energy supply issues, the government can temporarily waive this law to allow for the rapid transportation of goods. This way, foreign ships can also carry cargo between ports within the US.