Panama City, Panama — Former President Donald Trump has called for the elimination of tolls for American commercial and military vessels using both the Panama and Suez canals. His directive to Secretary of State Marco Rubio aimed for “immediate” action on this matter, emphasizing the significance of these critical maritime routes.

In a social media post, Trump reiterated his long-standing assertion that the United States should exert greater control over the Panama Canal, while also addressing the importance of maintaining free passage through the Suez Canal. He claimed that both canals owe their existence to the U.S. presence and influence, inciting a spirited debate regarding the operational governance of these waterways.

Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino responded indirectly, asserting that the tolls are established by the Panama Canal Authority, an independent entity responsible for managing the canal’s operations. “There is no agreement to the contrary,” Mulino stated, emphasizing that any changes to such regulations would need to come from the governing body, not external pressure.

The issue gains traction amid an ongoing dialogue about U.S. military strategy in the region. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who visited Panama City recently, expressed interest in negotiating a framework that would allow U.S. warships to utilize the canal without fees. He also broached the controversial idea of re-establishing a military presence in Panama to secure the canal — a notion promptly rejected by Panamanian officials.

Both the U.S. and China are among the primary users of the Panama Canal, underscoring the geopolitical stakes involved in its management. Meanwhile, the Suez Canal, which serves as a vital link between Europe and Asia, has been significantly impacted by rising tensions in the region. The canal previously accounted for approximately 10% of global maritime trade, but recent conflicts involving Yemen’s Houthi rebels have led to disruptions that have forced ships to divert around the southern tip of Africa.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Gaza conflict, the Houthis have targeted shipping routes in a show of solidarity with Palestinians, leading to a marked increase in maritime hazards. The Egyptian government reported that revenue from the Suez Canal plummeted by 60% in 2024, equating to a staggering loss of $7 billion.

In response to this escalating situation, U.S. military operations against Houthi positions have ramped up, with measures intensifying under Trump’s administration. The former president has taken a firm stance, asserting that U.S. military efforts will persist until maritime operations are secure.

As discussions surrounding these critical trade routes evolve, the tension between national interests and international agreements remains a pivotal aspect of the ongoing debate over maritime access in today’s geopolitical landscape.