Potential plans range from partnering more closely with Panamanian security forces to a less likely option of U.S. troops' seizing the canal by force, U.S. officials told NBC News.

American access to the Panama Canal, one of several new directives outlined in what amounts to a major overhaul of US strategic priorities, according to a new memo that was sent to senior leaders and reviewed by CNN.

The Panama Canal, a vital global waterway, is at the heart of recent political rhetoric by Donald Trump, who claims an intention to reclaim U.S. control. Although Trump cites issues such as excessive tolls and Chinese influence,