By Alek Buttermann The Panama Canal remains at the centre of geopolitical tension, as the United States increases pressure to counter China’s influence in the region, prompting sharp responses from both Beijing and Panama City.

The United States has reaffirmed Panamas sovereignty over the Panama Canal during U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths recent visit, the first by a Pentagon chief in decades. Despite strong rhetoric from Washington,

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth voiced concerns over China's influence on the Panama Canal, sparking a dispute with China. During talks in Panama, the US emphasized security cooperation with Panama against potential threats.