US President Donald Trump has demanded free passage for American commercial and military vessels through the Panama and Suez Canals. He instructed his Secretary of State to act on the matter without delay.
For several months, Trump has voiced a desire for the United States to assert greater control over the Panama Canal. His latest statement also highlighted the Suez Canal’s strategic importance.
Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump said: “American ships, both military and commercial, should be allowed to travel, free of charge, through the Panama and Suez Canals!” He claimed the canals would not exist in their current form without US involvement and tasked Secretary of State Marco Rubio with addressing the issue immediately.
Panama’s response and US plans for Canal Access
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, without directly referencing Trump, reminded that toll fees are regulated by the Panama Canal Authority, an autonomous body. He stated on X, “There is no agreement to the contrary.”
Earlier this month, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Panama City. He said the United States aimed to secure an agreement allowing its warships priority and free passage through the canal.
Both the United States and China rank among the top users of the Panama Canal.
Ongoing Disruptions in the Suez Canal
The Suez Canal, a key waterway linking Europe and Asia, handles about 10 percent of global maritime trade. However, attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden have disrupted operations.
Supported by Iran, the Houthis began targeting vessels after the Gaza conflict escalated. They claimed solidarity with Palestinians. As a result, many ships have been forced to reroute around Africa’s southern tip, significantly increasing travel time and costs.
Egypt reported a 60 percent drop in Suez Canal revenues last year, a loss estimated at $7 billion.
Since January 2024, the US military has carried out strikes against Houthi targets. Under Trump, these operations have intensified, with near-daily airstrikes in recent weeks. Trump has vowed to continue military action until the Houthis no longer pose a threat to shipping routes.
