Approximately 45,000 port workers have initiated a strike at U.S. ports following a collapse in negotiations between their union and employers. This marks the first strike by port workers on the U.S. East Coast since 1977 and poses a significant threat to operations at ports stretching from Maine to Texas. The workers, represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), began their walkout after their contracts expired at midnight. Negotiations for a new contract between the ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) broke down on Monday, leading to the strike that commenced at 12:01 AM ET on Tuesday. A total of 36 ports along the East and Gulf coasts are expected to be impacted by this action, potentially causing severe disruptions in port operations.