WASHINGTON -- If the U.S. determines that China's excessive influence over the Panama Canal or high passage fees are compromising the waterway's neutrality, Washington has the "preemptive authority" to intervene, a legal scholar told a congressional hearing on Tuesday.
Trump administration
U.S. can 'preemptively' defend Panama Canal, expert tells Senate
Lawmakers discuss national security implications of increased Chinese presence
A container ship transits through Cocoli Locks in the Panama Canal. One legal scholar says the U.S. could use force to enforce the waterway's neutrality. © Reuters
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