US Must Work to Ensure Access to Panama Canal, Officials Say
Background
The Panama Canal is one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Isthmus of Panama. The US acquired the rights to build and operate the canal in the early 20th century and agreed to turn over control to Panama in 1999, as part of a treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter.
Current Situation
President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated his desire to "take back" the Panama Canal, citing concerns that China controls it and could use it to undermine American interests. However, Trump has not provided specifics about how he would do so, or if military action might be required.
US Military Options
Two US officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, discussed the US military’s role in ensuring access to the Panama Canal. One official said that a document, described as an interim national security guidance by the new administration, called on the military to explore military options to safeguard access to the Panama Canal. A second official emphasized the US military’s array of potential options, including ensuring a close partnership with Panama’s military.
Pentagon’s National Defense Strategy
The Pentagon last published a national defense strategy (NDS) in 2022, which outlines the priorities for the military. An interim document provides broad policy guidance, similar to Trump’s executive orders and public remarks, ahead of a more considered policy document like a formal NDS.
International Law
Any move by a foreign power to take the canal by force would almost certainly violate international law. The US and Panama are treaty-bound to defend the canal against any threat to its neutrality and are permitted to take unilateral action to do so.
Conclusion
The US military must work to provide options to ensure US access to the Panama Canal, as the country’s national security and economic interests depend on it. The military’s array of potential options, including a close partnership with Panama’s military, will be crucial in safeguarding access to this vital waterway.
FAQs
- What is the Panama Canal?
The Panama Canal is a 50-mile long canal that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Isthmus of Panama. - Why is the US concerned about the Panama Canal?
The US is concerned that China controls the canal and could use it to undermine American interests. - What are the US military’s options for ensuring access to the Panama Canal?
The US military has a wide array of potential options, including ensuring a close partnership with Panama’s military. - Does the Pentagon have a national defense strategy for the Panama Canal?
Yes, the Pentagon published a national defense strategy (NDS) in 2022, which outlines the priorities for the military. An interim document provides broad policy guidance ahead of a more considered policy document like a formal NDS.