US Trump administration weighs Jones Act waiver extension as Iran conflict threatens fuel supplies

The White House is reviewing whether to extend a waiver that temporarily suspends the Jones Act, which requires cargo between U.S. ports to be carried on U.S.-flagged vessels. The current exemption runs until August 16, and officials say extending it could help prevent fuel shortages and price spikes as renewed hostilities with Iran disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump has also told Congress that the United States is once again at war with Iran, invoking the War Powers Resolution to secure a fresh 60‑day window for military operations. After a cease‑fire collapsed, Trump announced plans to take control of the Strait of Hormuz, impose a 20% charge on cargo, and reinstate a blockade of Iranian ports.