Hegeth says US is ‘taking back’ Panama Canal from China
Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth made a bold statement on Tuesday, declaring that the United States will reclaim control of the Panama Canal from what he referred to as “China’s influence.” Speaking at a press event in Panama, Hegseth emphasized the importance of safeguarding the canal’s operation and integrity against any threats posed by communist China or other foreign entities.
“The United States of America will not allow communist China or any other country to jeopardize the canal’s functionality,” Hegseth asserted. He highlighted the recent efforts between the U.S. and Panama to enhance their defense and security cooperation, marking a significant step towards strengthening their partnership in decades.
Hegseth underscored the joint commitment to reclaiming the Panama Canal from China’s influence, signaling a unified front between the two nations in safeguarding this vital trade route. The Defense Secretary’s visit to Panama comes in the wake of heightened tensions surrounding China’s alleged control over the canal, with Panama refuting such claims and opting to distance itself from Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.
During his address, Hegseth outlined a series of collaborative exercises, operations, and increased U.S. military presence in and around the canal to counter China’s growing presence in the region. While the Pentagon has not confirmed a definitive escalation of U.S. forces in the area, Hegseth’s remarks underscore the strategic importance of deterring Chinese influence in this crucial maritime passage.
Furthermore, Hegseth emphasized the continued installation of critical infrastructure by Chinese companies in the canal, raising concerns about potential surveillance capabilities that could compromise security and sovereignty. He reiterated that Panama and the United States must work together to mitigate these risks and prevent any unauthorized exploitation of the canal for geopolitical gains.
In response to Hegseth’s remarks, the Chinese embassy in Washington D.C. has yet to provide a formal statement addressing the allegations of their involvement in the Panama Canal. However, Hegseth remained resolute in his stance, affirming that China’s involvement in the canal poses a direct threat to both Panama and the United States’ national security and economic interests.
As the U.S. and Panama deepen their security ties to counter external threats, Hegseth emphasized the imperative of safeguarding the canal’s autonomy and ensuring that it remains a neutral and secure passageway for global trade. By taking proactive measures to counter China’s influence, both nations aim to uphold the canal’s integrity and prevent any unauthorized exploitation that could jeopardize their mutual interests.
