US to help unblock essential waterway

EGYPT (CNN) — Friday, the Suez Canal Authority accepted the U.S.’s offer to help dislodge the containership blocking the canal.

It is one of the most important waterways in the world and it’s been at a standstill since Tuesday when a 194-foot wide ship became lodged in the canal.

The ship called the “Ever Given,” was en route to the Netherlands when strong winds and a sandstorm caused it to run aground.

Shipping experts say it could take days, or even weeks, to free the vessel. Until then, about 300 ships are expected to pile-up in the floating traffic jam.

The Suez Canal connects the Mediterranean with the Red Sea.