Senator Cruz Advocates for Sanctions Over Mexico’s Water Delivery Obligations
Senator Ted Cruz criticizes Mexico for not fulfilling its water delivery obligations under the 1944 Water Treaty. He plans to introduce legislation imposing sanctions if violations occur. Despite recent promises from Mexico to deliver water, concerns about underlying political decisions and environmental factors persist.
Texas Senator Ted Cruz recently addressed Mexico’s commitment to deliver water to the United States, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. He has indicated plans to introduce legislation which would impose sanctions on Mexico if it fails to adhere to the stipulations of the 1944 Water Treaty. “This 400,000 acre feet of water is just a down payment. We’re going to keep pressing and keep pressing and keep pressing,” stated Cruz.
The 1944 Water Treaty mandates that Mexico provides over a million acre feet of water to the U.S. every five years from six tributaries. Data shared by the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) reveals that Mexico has delivered merely a quarter of the water owed during the current cycle. Some observers, including Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez, argue that Mexico is not solely responsible for the ongoing water shortages. “Mexico is part of the problem, but the tributaries that are coming in from both sides of the border are sending less water to the river,” explained Cortez.
Senator Cruz appears to disagree with this assessment. “Yes, there has been a drought organically, but the treaty is designed to apply in times of drought and in times of abundance. It was a political decision by the Mexican government,” he asserted, underscoring his belief that the treaty’s terms are clear and should be upheld without exception. Earlier this week, Mexico announced that it would provide up to 400,000 acre feet of water through October, coinciding with the end of the current water delivery cycle.
In summary, Senator Ted Cruz’s comments highlight ongoing tensions surrounding water delivery between the U.S. and Mexico. He plans to propose sanctions should Mexico not fulfill treaty obligations. Despite acknowledgment of recent drought conditions, Cruz maintains that both nations must adhere strictly to the treaty’s guidelines. The upcoming delivery of water from Mexico may temporarily alleviate some issues, yet deeper political and environmental concerns linger.
Original Source: www.krgv.com
