President Donald Trump has temporarily waived a century-old shipping law in an effort to curb surging oil and gas prices triggered by conflict in the Middle East. The 60-day suspension allows foreign-flagged vessels to transport fuel and other energy products between ports in the United States, easing restrictions that typically require ships to be built, owned and registered domestically.

The move follows a sharp rise in fuel costs after attacks disrupted shipping through a critical Middle Eastern waterway, sending global oil prices higher. The administration said the waiver would help vital resources such as oil, natural gas, fertilizer and coal move more freely and stabilize domestic supply chains during the crisis.

However, energy experts warn the measure has a significant limitation. Many refineries in the United States are designed to process light crude produced domestically, not the heavier crude grades commonly imported from countries such as Venezuela and Canada. As a result, even with expanded shipping access, refining constraints could limit the country’s ability to achieve true energy self-sufficiency.

Markets showed little sign of confidence in the plan, with oil prices continuing to climb after the announcement. Analysts cautioned that while the waiver may slow further price increases, it is unlikely to meaningfully shift global energy dynamics if the conflict persists.