Iran war: What’s the Jones Act, and why has Trump suspended it for 60 days?

President Trump suspended the Jones Act for 60 days, allowing foreign-flagged vessels to transport goods between U.S. ports during that period. The Jones Act, a century-old maritime law, typically requires that cargo moved between American ports be carried on U.S.-flagged ships built and crewed domestically. The suspension is tied to the Iran conflict and appears designed to increase shipping capacity and reduce transportation costs during the crisis. The move signals the administration's willingness to relax domestic shipping restrictions to address what it considers urgent economic or strategic needs. The temporary waiver expires in 60 days unless extended or made permanent.