US dockworkers suspend ports strike until January to allow for continued contract negotiations

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) struck at 36 major ports along the East and Gulf coasts, resulting in a shutdown of cargo operations, affecting about half of the cargo coming into and out of the US. This was the first strike in almost 50 years. The strike was initially intended to last until January 15, but was later suspended, with the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance agreeing on wages, although the details of the agreement remain unclear. The strike was reportedly due to a pay deal, with the ILA seeking a significant wage hike, reportedly around 62%, although this information may be inconsistent as some articles do not mention it. A total of 54 ships were waiting outside major ports, up from three on the previous Sunday.