The Strategic Importance of the Panama Canal and Current Tensions Under the Treaty

Ted Cruz: "When President Carter gave it away to Panama, Americans were puzzled, confused, and many outraged. Over time, many have lost sight of the canal’s importance, both for national security and the U.S. economy.

Not President Trump. When he demanded fair treatment for American ships and goods, many in the media scoffed. But the Panama Canal was not simply given away. President Carter made a deal. He signed a treaty, and President Trump is making a serious and substantive argument that this treaty is being violated right now.

This committee has jurisdiction under Senate rules over the Panama Canal, and today we will examine evidence of potential violations. President Trump has highlighted two key issues. Number one, the danger of China exploiting or blocking passage through the canal, and number two, the exorbitant costs of transit."