Trump’s Call for Free U.S. Passage Through Suez Canal Stirs Controversy in Egypt

The Suez Canal is one of Egypt’s most valuable assets, playing a huge role in the country’s economy and global trade. So when American President Donald Trump recently made a statement demanding that U.S. ships pass through the canal for free, it sparked considerable attention, especially in Egypt. 

Trump Claims U.S. Helped Build the Suez Canal and U.S. Ships Should Sail for Free

On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Donald Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, stating that U.S. military and commercial ships should be able to transit the Suez Canal without paying tolls.

Trump argued that the U.S. played a significant role in its creation. However, this view overlooks the established legal frameworks that govern the canal today. Trump’s statement was met with widespread discussion, particularly in Egypt, where the Suez Canal is considered a vital national asset.

International Law Gives Egypt the Right to Charge Toll Fees

The Suez Canal is governed by the Constantinople Convention of 1888, which allows ships of all nations to pass but does not exempt them from paying tolls.

Under Egyptian law, including Decree No. 30 of 1957, all ships must pay standardized fees, with specific humanitarian exceptions.

Egyptian Public Responds to Trump’s Claims

Following Trump’s comments, many Egyptians, including public figures and legal experts, voiced their views, emphasizing Egypt’s sovereign rights over the Suez Canal.

The conversation surrounding Trump’s comments highlights the Suez Canal’s crucial role in global trade and Egypt’s economy.

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