The White House said the president approved a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act, allowing foreign-flagged vessels to transport fuel and other energy products between U.S. ports. The move marks a temporary suspension of rules that typically require such shipping to be conducted on U.S.-built and operated ships.

Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the waiver is intended to ease short-term disruptions in the oil market and allow resources such as oil, natural gas, fertilizer, and coal to move more efficiently across the country.

The administration framed the decision as both an economic and national security measure, aimed at ensuring a reliable supply to military installations and critical infrastructure as U.S. forces continue operations tied to the Iran conflict. Disruptions to global energy markets, including reduced traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, have contributed to rising oil and gasoline prices.

By loosening Jones Act restrictions, officials aim to reduce transportation bottlenecks, particularly in moving fuel from the Gulf Coast to high-demand regions such as the East Coast. Analysts say the increased availability of foreign tankers could lower shipping costs and provide modest relief at the pump.

Energy experts estimate the policy could reduce gasoline prices by several cents per gallon in some areas, though the overall impact will depend on broader market conditions. Crude oil prices have surged in recent weeks, driving up fuel costs for consumers and businesses.

The Jones Act has long faced criticism from free-market advocates, who argue it raises shipping costs and limits flexibility in domestic energy distribution. Supporters of the law, however, say it protects U.S. shipbuilding and maritime jobs.

The waiver also applies to other key commodities, including fertilizer and natural gas, which could provide relief to agricultural producers and manufacturers dealing with higher input costs.

Officials emphasized that the measure is temporary and targeted, designed to address immediate supply disruptions without permanently altering U.S. maritime policy.

The action comes alongside other steps to stabilize energy markets, including releases from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve and efforts to secure global shipping routes. The administration has signaled it may take additional measures if energy market volatility continues.