New Delhi, March 14 -- The Trump administration has ordered the restart of offshore oil operations in California to strengthen energy security and curb reliance on foreign crude as fuel prices rise after the Iran conflict.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order allowing the energy secretary to take action under the Defense Production Act to address potential supply disruptions.

US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright then directed Sable Offshore Corp. to restore operations at the Santa Ynez Unit and the Santa Ynez Pipeline System off the California coast.

Announcing the decision, Wright said the move is necessary to protect the country's energy security and ensure reliable fuel supplies for military installations along the West C...