Panama will host Panamax 2026 from July 6 to August 14, bringing more than 12 nations and about 1,500 personnel together for canal security training. The exercise will focus on maritime, air, and land coordination under Panamanian authority.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works is launching a “Tapa Huecos” patching campaign in Alto Boquete to repair damaged streets and improve traffic flow. The work targets a district where road conditions affect residents, commerce, and tourism.
Costa Rica is escalating its trade dispute with Panama, seeking international action over restrictions on agricultural exports. The conflict, already ruled on by the WTO, remains active after Panama’s appeal.
Panama’s ship registry remains one of the world’s most popular, with thousands of vessels sailing under its flag for cost and regulatory reasons. The issue is again in focus as lawmakers weigh how maritime activity fits into Panama’s economic substance rules.
Israel has kept striking southern Lebanon even after a 45-day ceasefire extension, exposing how fragile the border truce remains. The continued attacks raise the risk of wider regional escalation.
Panama’s Jewish ambassador is working to strengthen Israel’s ties with Latin America, highlighting the country’s role as a diplomatic bridge. The effort reflects Panama’s broader international reach and its position in regional foreign policy.
Vladimir Putin is set to visit China as Moscow and Beijing move to deepen their strategic partnership amid global tensions and the war in Ukraine. The trip highlights growing coordination between two powers challenging US influence.
Armed men kidnapped dozens of students in Nigeria’s Borno State in an attack that bore the hallmarks of Boko Haram. The raid highlights the continuing insecurity in northeast Nigeria and its wider regional impact.
A 38-year-old man was killed in a great white shark attack at a popular diving and fishing spot near Perth, western Australia. The death has renewed debate over coastal safety and shark management.
The United States has arrested and charged an Iraqi national described as a senior commander in Iran-backed Kataib Hezbollah. The case is part of Washington’s broader effort to pressure militant networks tied to Tehran.
Panama’s tax revenue rose 9.1% through April 2026, driven in part by stronger consumption and ITBMS collections. Even so, receipts remained below the budget target, underscoring pressure on public finances.
Panama’s National Police say gang fragmentation is driving a rise in homicides, with 242 gang members arrested this year in 249 operations. Authorities say larger groups are expanding through alliances, recruitment and coastal drug routes.
Unachi rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas is facing renewed scrutiny over her long tenure, salary, and alleged patronage inside Panama’s public university system. The dispute has also drawn in oversight and political leaders.
Dengue in Panama reached its highest incidence in 25 years in 2024, while new analysis suggests many infections are going undetected. The findings point to hidden transmission in regions such as Veraguas, Ngäbe Buglé and parts of Panama Oeste.
Panama and Costa Rica are advancing a railway vision aimed at creating a regional cargo corridor linking ports, free zones and industrial hubs. The project now faces its biggest test: proving enough freight demand to justify billions in investment.
Panama prosecutors inspected Unachi as they investigate salary increases tied to foreign degrees that may not have met accreditation requirements. The case is testing accountability in the public university system.
A new Ebola outbreak in DR Congo’s Ituri province has killed at least 65 people and left 246 suspected cases, prompting urgent containment efforts. The flare-up highlights the ongoing public health risks posed by Ebola in Central Africa.
Panama’s debate over a new Constitution is intensifying as legal voices argue the current system concentrates power, weakens oversight, and lags behind human rights standards. Supporters say only a broad redesign can strengthen institutions and restore democratic balance.
Panama’s Ambassador to Israel, Ezra Cohen, highlighted the historic role of Jewish Panamanians and the close ties between Panama and Israel. His remarks also pointed to efforts to strengthen Israel’s connections with Latin America.
Israeli air strikes in Gaza City hit a residential building and a vehicle, killing at least seven Palestinians. The attack adds to the mounting civilian toll in the war in Gaza.