In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Analysts are warning that the Bab el-Mandeb Strait could become the next major shipping flashpoint as Houthi attacks raise fears of disruption in the Red Sea. Any escalation could push up energy and freight costs worldwide, including in Panama and Latin America.
The Panama Papers became a landmark investigation into offshore secrecy, placing Panama at the center of a global debate over hidden wealth and financial transparency. The revelations transformed how governments and the public view shell companies and opaque ownership structures.
Iran said Iraqi ships can pass through the Strait of Hormuz without restrictions, highlighting the waterway’s role in Gulf trade and global energy security. The message comes amid rising transit traffic and ongoing regional tensions.
Mayer Mizrachi said Panama City’s municipalities had no role in designing the new 2026-2030 vehicle plates, after criticism over the slogan “Con paso firme.” The first batch has already begun reaching first-time vehicle registrations.
Panama has introduced vehicle license plates carrying political and patriotic slogans, adding a symbolic message to one of the country’s most visible public items. The design turns everyday registration into a broader statement of national identity.
Panama’s new vehicle license plates have sparked criticism after featuring a political slogan. The backlash centers on whether state-issued plates should carry any message that can be read as political.
Panamanian-flagged vessels are facing restrictions in a dispute linked to China’s pressure on global trade. The issue is drawing support for Panama from countries aligning with the United States.
Panama has secured support from seven countries after vessel detentions in China prompted concern over global trade stability. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said such tactics undermine confidence in the international commercial system.
Israeli police arrested anti-war protesters in Tel Aviv during a rally against the war on Iran. The clashes highlight growing domestic tension as the conflict escalates.
Panama is gaining international backing as China’s restrictions on Panamanian-flagged vessels draw criticism from several countries. Costa Rica, Honduras, Peru and Ukraine have joined calls against the inspections and delays at Chinese ports.
Panama’s new vehicle license plates have sparked criticism after including the slogan “With a firm step,” a phrase linked to the current administration. Opponents say the five-year plate cycle makes the message a long-lasting political symbol on private cars.
Panama’s new 2026-2030 vehicle plates are facing backlash over the inclusion of the slogan “Con paso firme,” which critics say turns a state document into political messaging. The ATTT says the plates are being distributed under the rules set by Law 214.
Panama is gaining diplomatic support from several countries after China’s actions against Panama-flagged ships drew warnings over global trade stability and maritime law. Governments across Latin America, Europe and the Middle East said the pressure threatens freedom of navigation and the rule of law.
The United States is shifting nearly all of its stealthy JASSM-ER cruise missiles into its Iran campaign, a move that signals a major escalation and strains U.S. stockpiles. The redeployment could also ripple through global security, trade and energy markets.
Deadly Russian and Ukrainian strikes killed 10 people as Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Turkey for talks with Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The visit highlights Ankara’s continuing role as a key mediator in the war.
Debris from an intercepted Iranian projectile sparked a fire in vehicles in Ramat Gan, central Israel, highlighting the civilian risks of the escalating Israel-Iran conflict.
Enrique “Chino” Jaramillo became part of Panama’s political history when he refused to release $100,000 in state funds for Omar Torrijos’s return from Mexico in 1969. His defiance became a lasting example of integrity under military pressure.
Israel’s ongoing military posture underscores a conflict that remains active on multiple fronts, with regional and global consequences still expanding. The war’s ripple effects could touch trade, energy prices, and diplomacy far beyond the Middle East.
U.S. General Donovan met with President José Raúl Mulino and senior security officials in Panama to discuss strengthening bilateral security cooperation. The talks highlighted ongoing U.S.-Panamanian coordination and training with Panamanian forces.
Marco Rubio has accused China of bullying over delays involving Panama-flagged ships, adding to tensions tied to maritime trade and regional influence. The dispute underscores Panama’s strategic role as a shipping hub and the continued importance of the Panama Canal.