Although we do not have territory there, we have vital interests--particularly freedom of navigation.

For too long, the United States has failed to act on this treaty.

But in no other situation in which our security interests are so much at stake do we consider customary international law good enough to protect rights that are vital to the operation of the United States military.

We have much more to gain from legal certainty and public order in the world's oceans than any other country.

Critics claim we would surrender U.S. sovereignty under this treaty, but in fact, it is exactly the opposite.

No, it would not. It would enhance our ability to be able to navigate because we would be able to be at the table to protect our interests and protect our claims.

If the United States is to assert its historical role as a global maritime power--and we have without question the strongest navy in the world. But if we are going to continue to assert our role as a maritime power, it is essential that we…

The Law of the Sea Convention provides a stable, recognized legal regime that we need in order to conduct our global operations today and in the future.

The time is now for the Senate to do what others have failed to do, join the Law of the Sea Convention.

How can you even assert that when you are not even--have acceded to the Law of the Seas Convention?

This would in no way inhibit our ability to conduct intelligence operations.

That is a correct statement.

If we are not operating based on the same rules, it puts us at a disadvantage.

the end result of that is going to be conflict, and it could very well jeopardize our national security

The majority of our allies are signatories. They have acceded to this Convention.

It does put us at risk, and the risk is this, that if we face a situation that involves navigational rights...

This is also false.

Yes, regardless of whether the United States is a party to the Law of the Sea Convention, U.S. Military assets will continue to conduct operational assertions under the U.S. Freedom of Navigation Program.