Panama has taken formal steps in response to recent threats made by US President Donald Trump regarding the Panama Canal, which has reignited geopolitical tensions. In a swift reaction, Panama lodged a complaint with the United Nations, citing concerns over Trump's declaration during his inaugural address where he claimed, “We didn’t give it to China, we gave it to Panama. And we’re taking it back.” This statement has raised alarms about potential military actions being considered by Trump against Panama's sovereignty.

The Panamanian government referenced a provision in the UN Charter that prohibits using force or threats to undermine another nation’s territorial integrity. This letter was directed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and is expected to seek involvement from the UN Security Council.

Adding to its diplomatic maneuvering, Panama initiated an audit of Hutchison Ports, which operates two significant ports at either end of the canal - Balboa and Cristobal. This move aims to ensure transparency and efficiency in operations amid concerns that the Chinese presence may influence control over the crucial waterway. According to sources within the Panamanian government, the audit seeks to counter the narrative pushed by Trump regarding Chinese influence and provide concrete data regarding port operations and revenue.

The focus on Hutchison Ports comes after Trump accused the company, which is linked to Hong Kong interests, of enabling Chinese control over the canal, asserting that Panama's agreements have negatively impacted US interests. The Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino staunchly defended the nation’s sovereignty, insisting that "the canal is and will remain Panama's," and dismissing any suggestions of foreign interference in its administration.

Previously, Trump's threats have drawn criticism for potentially catalyzing military involvement in an area already sensitive to international relations. The canal handles a significant volume of global trade, making it integral not only to Panama’s economy—having generated over $30 billion for the government since its return in 1999—but also to the economic interests of the United States, which remains the primary user, handling approximately 40 percent of its container shipments.

In light of these developments, the Panamanian government’s actions, including close scrutiny of Hutchison's operations and a formal complaint to the UN, represent a robust defensive measure against perceived threats to its sovereignty. The outcomes of both the UN complaint and the audit could have far-reaching implications for future US-Panama relations, as well as the geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Panama Canal.

For more information, refer to the original articles from South China Morning Post, CNN, The Hill, and India Times.