US President Donald Trump has granted a 90-day extension to a shipping waiver that facilitates the movement of oil, fuel, and fertilizer between US ports, now set to expire in mid-August. This waiver allows foreign-flagged vessels to transport these commodities, providing much-needed stability amid ongoing volatility in the energy market, particularly due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for 20% of the world's oil and gas supplies. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers stated that the extension aims to ensure that the maritime industry can maintain a steady flow of goods. This decision comes as the administration seeks to mitigate rising fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections, where affordability is a key concern for voters. The waiver is linked to the Jones Act, a law that mandates goods transported between US ports to be carried on US-built, owned, and crewed vessels. While proponents argue this law is crucial for national security, critics contend it inflates shipping costs and limits capacity, particularly during disruptions. Analysts caution that despite hopes for falling prices, ongoing supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions may keep costs elevated.