Trump Demands Free Passage for U.S. Vessels Through Panama, Suez Canals Amid Houthi Attacks

Donald Trump has called for American commercial and military vessels to be granted free passage through the Panama and Suez Canals. This demand was made via his social media platform, Truth Social, on April 26, directing his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to address the issue immediately. Trump's request comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, particularly due to attacks by Iran-backed Houthi rebels on shipping routes, which have forced vessels to take longer and more costly detours around the southern tip of Africa.

The Houthi attacks, which began after the outbreak of the Gaza conflict, have targeted ships in support of the Palestinians. These disruptions have led to significant rerouting of maritime traffic, adding to the operational costs and delays for shipping companies. The situation has prompted Trump to assert that the U.S. military has been conducting operations against Houthi strongholds since January 2024, with attacks occurring almost daily over the past month. Trump vowed that military actions would continue until the Houthi threat to maritime trade is neutralized.

Trump's statement underscores his belief that the existence of both the Panama and Suez Canals is intrinsically linked to U.S. involvement. He argued that without American intervention, these critical waterways would not exist. This perspective is supported by historical context, as the U.S. played a pivotal role in the construction and management of the Panama Canal, and has had a significant influence on the Suez Canal's operations.

The Panama Canal, managed by the Panama Canal Authority, is an autonomous body responsible for overseeing this vital trade route. The canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating a significant portion of global maritime trade. Similarly, the Suez Canal, which traverses Egypt and links the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, is a crucial artery for trade between Europe and Asia. Before the Houthi attacks, approximately 10% of global sea trade passed through the Suez Canal.

Trump's demand for free passage through these canals is not new. Since his return to the White House, he has repeatedly criticized China's influence over the Panama Canal and threatened to "reclaim" it. This stance was echoed by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who visited Panama City earlier this month. Austin stated that the U.S. is seeking an agreement to allow American military vessels to pass through the Panama Canal with priority and without cost. This move is seen as a strategic effort to secure U.S. interests in the region and ensure the safety of maritime trade routes.

The response from Panama has been measured. Panama's President Jose Raul Mulino, in a statement that did not directly address Trump's remarks, reiterated that the Panama Canal's tolls are managed by the Panama Canal Authority. This autonomous body is responsible for the canal's operations and revenue, which are crucial for Panama's economy.

Trump's call for free passage through the Suez Canal is equally significant. The canal's strategic importance has been underscored by recent events, as attacks by Houthi rebels have disrupted global shipping routes. The U.S. military's ongoing operations against Houthi targets in Yemen are aimed at restoring stability to the region and ensuring the safety of maritime trade.

In summary, Trump's demand for free passage through the Panama and Suez Canals reflects his administration's focus on securing U.S. interests in critical maritime trade routes. The ongoing Houthi attacks and the strategic importance of these canals have heightened the urgency of this issue. The response from Panama and the broader international community will be closely watched as this situation develops.