The US’s century-old ’Jones Act’ has been temporarily suspended, what is it?

The ongoing war with Iran has disrupted shipping and has caused problems with the supply of fuel and agricultural products to US ports. In this situation, the White House is considering temporarily relaxing the 106-year-old Jones Act.

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt said, 'The White House is considering temporarily relaxing the terms of the Jones Act for a limited period of time to allow essential oil and agricultural products to freely reach American ports in the interests of national security.'

However, she said that 'notice of final decision has not yet been issued'. Another White House official said that the temporary relaxation will not have any impact on the American shipbuilding industry.

The 'Jones Act' is known as Section 27 of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920-1920. According to the Jones Act, in order to transport goods from one port in the United States to another by sea, the ship must be built in the United States, fly the flag of the United States, and be owned and operated by American citizens or permanent residents.

If the law is temporarily relaxed, foreign ships will also be able to transport goods to US ports to meet the shortage of energy and agricultural products.

It should be noted that after the joint attack on Iran by Israel and the United States on February 28, tensions in the Middle East have increased due to disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. One fifth of the world's total energy is exported through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Anadolu Agency.