Rubio Accuses China of Bullying Over Panama-Flagged Ship Detentions

Rubio accused China of bullying by detaining Panama-flagged ships after Panama seized control of Canal ports.

“Israel backs Panama against China amid allegations of vessel detentions 'Upholding the rule of law and freedom of navigation is in everyone’s interest,' says Foreign Minister Gideon Saar Istanbul Israel said Thursday that it supports Panama’s “clear stance” following allegations that China detained Panamanian-flagged ships”

Anadolu Ajansı

Nearly 75% of 124 ships held in March were Panama-flagged, a sharp increase from previous months.

Anadolu Ajansı

China denied the allegations; Israel and Peru expressed support for Panama.

The detentions followed Panama's Supreme Court ruling that CK Hutchison's operation was unconstitutional.

In March 179 vessels were detained in Asia-Pacific, with 123 in China.

Of those 123, 91 were Panama-flagged held in China -- more than half of all vessels detained in the region.

Asialyst

This was a massive jump from 45 detentions in February and 71 in January.

China frames it as legitimate Port State Control to ensure safety.

The episode unfolds against intensifying US-China competition over the Panama Canal.

“Rubio accuses China of ‘bullying’ for holding up Panama-flagged ships after canal clash Rubio accuses China of ‘bullying’ for holding up Panama-flagged ships after canal clash WASHINGTON (AP) — U”

Associated Press

Trump had accused China of running the canal and talked about retaking it.

Israel's Foreign Minister said maritime enforcement must stay free from political pressure.

The canal handles roughly $18-$20 billion in trade daily.

Rubio warned the detentions destabilize supply chains and raise costs.

Tokyo MOU provides frameworks for port state control to ensure vessel safety.

Bloomberg Línea

Panama is the world's largest ship registry, carried by about one in seven vessels.

The aggregate impact and timing suggest a coordinated campaign.

Peru expressed support for Panama and called for a rules-based maritime system.

The dispute sets a precedent with potential ripple effects beyond the Panama Canal.

Click2Houston

China, the US, and Panama trade blows in port operations.

This underscores the fragility of international trade governance.