The Trump administration has requested the Pentagon to provide military options to ensure the United States has complete access to the Panama Canal, according to two US officials who spoke to Reuters on Thursday.

Donald Trump has reiterated his desire to “take back” the Panama Canal, which is considered one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. However, he has not provided specifics on how he intends to do so or if military action may be necessary.

One US official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, stated that a document classified as interim national security guidance by the new administration requested the military to explore options for ensuring “unfettered” access to the Panama Canal.

A second official mentioned that the US military has a wide range of potential options to guarantee access, including fostering a close partnership with Panama’s military.

The Pentagon last published a national defense strategy in 2022, outlining the military’s priorities. An interim document provides general policy guidance, similar to Trump’s executive orders and public remarks, before a more comprehensive policy document like a formal national defense strategy.

The Pentagon has not responded to a request for comment.

The interim document was first reported by CNN. NBC News reported earlier on Thursday that the White House had instructed the Pentagon to develop options for the Panama Canal.

Trump has claimed that the US needs to reclaim the canal, asserting without evidence that China controls it and could use it to undermine American interests. During his inaugural speech in January, Trump accused Panama of failing to fulfill a promise regarding the final transfer of the canal in 1999.

Ilya Espino de Marotta, the canal’s deputy administrator, stated that the canal is fully operated by Panamanians, and there is no Chinese involvement in its management.

The US and Panama have a treaty obligation to defend the canal against any threats to its neutrality and are authorized to take unilateral action to do so.

The US obtained the rights to build and operate the canal in the early 20th century. In a treaty signed in 1979 during the administration of Jimmy Carter, the US agreed to transfer control of the canal to Panama at the end of 1999.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/13/trump-pentagon-panama-canal