US–Panama Security: The Trump administration will reprogram $52 million in foreign military financing from Slovakia, North Macedonia, Tunisia and Iraq to Panama, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia, citing “narcoterrorism” and the need to keep the Panama Canal secure. Retiree Policy: President José Raúl Mulino says talks are advancing on a bill to expand benefits for retirees and pensioners, aiming for approval before the Oct. 31 end of the legislative period. Gambling Regulation: Panama approved a bill to tighten gambling rules and ban betting advertising, targeting the rapid growth of online betting. Reintegration Jobs: Panama inaugurated the second “Café Presidente El Monasterio,” expanding its job reintegration model for people completing sentences. Canal Disruption Watch: With El Niño-linked drought pressures building, the Panama Canal’s operating limits and shipping impacts remain a key concern for regional logistics. Regional Tensions: Middle East shipping risks continue after attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, including a Panama-flagged tanker incident reported by Oman.