United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Tuesday that the US intends to "take back" control of the Panama Canal from what he described as growing Chinese influence. Speaking during a visit to Panama, Hegseth stated that Chinese firms gaining a foothold in the country poses a threat of espionage and has potential repercussions for US national security.

"We will not allow Beijing to weaponize the canal," Hegseth declared, echoing President Donald Trump’s earlier vows to reclaim the strategic waterway. The Trump administration views the canal as vital to American economic and security interests.

Hegseth’s remarks mark a sharp escalation in rhetoric over foreign involvement in the region, particularly amid concerns that Chinese investments in critical infrastructure could be used to expand Beijing’s geopolitical leverage.

China swiftly rejected the allegations. In a statement released by its embassy in Panama, Beijing condemned Hegseth’s claims as "unfounded" and called for the US to halt what it described as "acts of plunder" and intimidation.

"Developing relations with China constitutes a sovereign decision of Panama as a sovereign country and a decision of its people, in which the US has no right to intervene," the Chinese Embassy stated. It emphasized that China has always respected Panama’s sovereignty over the canal.

The embassy’s response also urged Washington to reflect on what it called an "abusive attitude" and repeated that cooperation between China and Panama is based on mutual benefit and respect.

As tensions mount, the clash over the Panama Canal reflects broader strategic rivalry between the US and China, especially in areas of infrastructure and trade. The outcome may have lasting implications for international alignments and Panama’s role as a global shipping hub.