Then, from 1973 to 1995, it restricted exports of Alaskan crude oil.

But they are not central to the crisis, and Alaskan oil has nothing at all to do with it.

There it will load the Alaskan oil another tanker has brought and take it back through the canal.

A more efficient way to transport Alaskan oil must also be sought.

"I do not think the Americans will find it quite so simple as some people think to become reliant on Alaskan oil," he said.

But he has also complained about other provisions, noting that the curb on Alaskan oil stifles exports.

"I remember the pipeline," he added, recalling another battle over Alaskan oil in the early 1970's.

It is against current law to export any Alaskan oil.

The same is true of Alaskan oil.

The accident shouldn't change one truth: Alaskan oil is too valuable to leave in the ground.