The Pentagon has reportedly been tasked with developing potential strategies to ensure the US maintains access to the crucial waterway.
President Trump has reportedly instructed the US military to formulate plans to “secure” the Panama Canal against perceived Chinese influence, following repeated suggestions that the US should “reclaim” or “take back” the canal, according to reports from Reuters, CNN, and NBC.
The Panama Canal, a key shipping lane connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, has been under Panamanian administration since 1999, as dictated by the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. These treaties mandate the canal’s neutrality and accessibility to all nations. Trump has voiced multiple threats to regain control of the canal, citing what he deems “ridiculous fees” and expressing concerns about China’s growing presence in the region.
Earlier in the year, Trump did not dismiss the possibility of using military force to seize control of the canal, asserting that all options were being considered to safeguard US economic and national security interests.
Panamanian officials have previously strongly refuted Trump’s claims and threats. The Panama Canal Authority insists that the canal is operated exclusively by Panamanians, and there is no evidence to support allegations of Chinese control.
President Jose Raul Mulino has declared the canal as part of Panama’s “inalienable patrimony”, affirming Panama’s complete operational control. However, following a personal delivery of Trump’s ultimatum to Panama by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in February, Mulino conceded to Washington by declining to renew Panama’s 2017 agreements with China under the Belt and Road Initiative.