US President Donald Trump has intensified his push for control over global maritime routes, demanding free transit for American military and commercial ships through the Panama and Suez Canals.

In a Sunday post on Truth Social Trump claimed neither canal would exist without US support and directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio to secure this arrangement immediately.

Trump’s focus on the Panama Canal began shortly after his second-term inauguration in January 2025, when he sent Rubio to Panama to negotiate favorable terms.

Trump later claimed US warships could pass toll-free demand Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino rejected, emphasizing that the Panama Canal Authority independently sets tolls. Panama which assumed full control in 1999 views such demands as threats to its sovereignty.

Now Trump’s attention has shifted to the Suez Canal a critical link between Europe and Asia handling about 10% of global maritime trade. The canal managed by Egypt, has faced disruptions from Houthi attacks in the Red Sea since the Gaza war began slashing Egypt’s revenue by 60% in 2024 $7 billion loss.

Trump’s call for free passage coincides with intensified US military strikes against Houthi positions, which he vows will continue until shipping threats end.

The Panama Canal, carrying 40% of US container traffic annually with 14,000 ship transits, is vital for American trade, especially for Asian imports. The Suez Canal sees around 20,000 transits yearly, underscoring its global significance.

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Trump’s demands have sparked concerns about escalating tensions with Panama and Egypt unlikely to cede control over these strategic waterways. Critics argue that forcing free transit could violate international law and strain diplomatic ties while supporters see it as a bold move to assert US dominance in global trade.