Bangladesh, April 9 -- In a bold and confrontational move that could reshape the geopolitical dynamics of Latin America, the United States has publicly declared its intent to “take back” the Panama Canal from what it calls creeping Chinese influence. The announcement, delivered by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during the unveiling of a new American-financed dock at the Vasco Nunez de Balboa Naval Base on April 8, marks a dramatic escalation in Washingtons efforts to reassert its dominance over a waterway long seen as strategically vital.

“China did not build this canal. China does not operate this canal. And China will not weaponize this canal,” Hegseth proclaimed to military officers and regional dignitaries....