Hormuz effect? How US, China are ramping up tensions over the Panama Canal

The Panama Canal has become a maritime flashpoint between the US and China, with Washington accusing Beijing of detaining Panama-linked ships. China denied these allegations, calling them hypocritical and accusing the US of politicizing global commerce. Analysts warn that any disruption to the canal could significantly impact global trade, leading to supply bottlenecks and inflationary pressures. This situation occurs amid rising tensions between the US and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.