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The Key Decisions of George H.W. Bush: Why did the United States decide to overthrow Noriega?
On December 20, 1989, the United States, under the leadership of President George H.W. Bush, launched an invasion of Panama. The operation was called "Operation Just Cause." The main purpose of this decision by the United States was to overthrow the de facto leader of Panama at the time, General Manuel Noriega, and eliminate his links to drug smuggling and extortion activities. The launch of this action was not only based on security considerations, but also a major shift in U.S. foreign policy in Latin America.
"This invasion was not only to protect the lives of American citizens, but also to ensure democracy and human rights in Panama."
Background
In the late 1970s, the relationship between the United States and Panama had been full of complex backgrounds. In 1977, President George Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos signed the Torrijos-Carter Treaty, which aimed to return control of the Panama Canal to Panama by the year 2000. Still, the United States maintains strong military bases and troops in Panama. The corruption of Noriega's top leaders gradually emerged in the 1980s, which became one of the main reasons for the deterioration of relations between the two parties.
Deterioration of relationship
As early as 1988, Noriga was indicted in the United States on several criminal charges related to the drug trade, marking the collapse of his relationship with the U.S. government. With the results of Panama's 1989 national election declared invalid by Noriega, the situation took a turn for the worse. The United States strongly condemned this and strengthened the US military presence in Pakistan.
Basics of the invasion
The official rationale for the U.S. invasion was stated by President Bush on the morning of December 20. He referred to Panama's "declaration of war" against the United States and its attacks on American troops, and stressed the need to protect the lives of American citizens. The goals of the invasion include: first, to protect U.S. citizens living in Panama; second, to defend Panama’s democracy and human rights; third, to combat drug smuggling; and fourth, to protect the integrity of the Torrijos-Carter Treaty.
"We cannot stand by and allow a dictator who colludes with drug lords to remain in power."
Implementation of "Just Cause Action"
At 12:46 a.m. on December 20, 1989, the U.S. military operation against Panama officially began. The operation involved 27,684 U.S. troops and 300 aircraft. The main purpose of the attack was to target important facilities of the Panama Defense Forces, including the civilian airport and military base in Panama City. Unless further atrocities are prevented, the U.S. military aims to quickly dismantle Noriga's military power.
Noriega’s capture and consequences
As the military operation unfolded, Noriega fled a few days later and sought asylum in the Vatican's diplomatic corps. Finally, he voluntarily surrendered on January 3, 1990, was arrested by the US military and returned to the United States to face trial. The death toll of this military intervention has caused controversy. According to different reports, Panama suffered heavy casualties within several days, including military personnel and innocent civilians.
"The U.S. action was condemned internationally, but was seen in Panama as an important step toward democratization."
International reactions and comments
Although U.S. officials claimed that the invasion was legal and necessary, their actions were condemned by the United Nations, the European Parliament, and the Organization of American States as a violation of international law. After reflecting on the invasion, Panamanian President Enda said that the invasion helped Panama move towards democracy, but at the cost of precious lives.
Conclusion
The U.S. decision to invade Panama has triggered extensive discussions and reflections at home and abroad. Whether this action can truly achieve democracy will still need the test of time. How will history evaluate this military action, and how will its impact on future international politics develop?
