Panama Denies U.S. Claims of Free Canal Transit for Government Vessels

The Indian embassy in Panama has confirmed that a group of Indian migrants deported from the United States are safe at the Decapolis Hotel in Panama City, where they are being temporarily housed. This announcement follows reports of the deportees displaying signs asking for help in their hotel windows, which raised concerns about their well-being. Panamanian authorities informed the embassy that the deportees, which include individuals from various Asian countries, are being provided with essential amenities and medical attention. According to the embassy's official communication, "The embassy team has obtained consular access. We are working closely with the host government to ensure their well-being." The deportees were part of a larger group of 299 migrants sent back to Panama as part of a US immigration enforcement strategy initiated by former President Donald Trump. However, challenges arise as many deportees come from countries that do not accept direct deportation flights, necessitating their temporary stay in Panama as arrangements for their repatriation are organized. Concerns have been voiced by human rights groups regarding the treatment of the deportees and risks of returning to war-torn countries.

More than 300 migrants, including Indian nationals, are currently detained at the Decapolis Hotel in Panama City as they await repatriation after being deported from the United States, according to the Associated Press. This situation arises from a recent increase in deportations initiated by former President Donald Trump's administration targeting illegal immigrants. The migrants have been documenting their plight by placing desperate messages in hotel windows, pleading for assistance and stating that they feel unsafe in their home countries. Authorities revealed that over 40% of these individuals are unwilling to return voluntarily. The Panamanian government, acting as a temporary holding facility, has assured that migrants are receiving necessary medical care and food while awaiting their return. As part of a migration agreement with the U.S., Panama is facilitating the processing of deportees. Security Minister Frank Abrego noted that 171 out of the 299 deportees have consented to return, with assistance from the International Organization for Migration and the UN Refugee Agency, while discussions continue for the others. Costa Rica is also expected to participate in accommodating additional deportees shortly.

Since his reelection, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared intentions to reclaim control of the Panama Canal, claiming current fees for American ships are excessive and expressing concern over Chinese influence in the region. The canal was handed over to Panama in 1999 following treaties signed in 1977 under President Jimmy Carter, which mandated a gradual transfer of control and guaranteed equal treatment for all nations regarding tolls, according to official reports. The canal’s construction, completed by the U.S. in 1914, marked a significant engineering achievement and propelled the United States into global prominence. However, continuous American control over the canal zone has sparked tensions with Panama, peaking in 1964 when riots broke out during an incident involving the national flags. In the early 2000s, Panama undertook a major expansion of the canal, reportedly costing over $5.2 billion, addressing the needs of larger container ships. Trump's assertions ignore the investment and development made independently by Panama and the diminishing role of U.S. influence there, highlighted by Panama's shift in allegiance from Taiwan to Beijing in 2017.