What was Operation Just Cause, and why was it significant?

Operation Just Cause was the US military invasion of Panama in 1989 to depose its dictator, Manuel Noriega. Its significance lies in its implications for international law, US-Latin American relations, and the use of military force for regime change.

Operation Just Cause, launched on 20th December 1989, was the largest US military operation since the Vietnam War. The operation was initiated under President George H.W. Bush, with the primary objectives of safeguarding the lives of US citizens in Panama, defending democracy and human rights, combating drug trafficking, and protecting the integrity of the Panama Canal Treaty. The operation involved over 27,000 US troops and resulted in the removal of General Manuel Noriega, the military dictator of Panama.

The operation was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it marked a shift in US foreign policy towards a more interventionist approach. The US justified the invasion on the grounds of protecting American lives, restoring democracy, and combating drug trafficking. However, critics argued that the real motive was to maintain US control over the Panama Canal. This raised questions about the legitimacy of using military force for regime change and the respect for national sovereignty under international law.

Secondly, Operation Just Cause had a profound impact on US-Latin American relations. The invasion was widely condemned in Latin America and the Caribbean, with the Organization of American States passing a resolution deploring the invasion. The operation strained US relations with its southern neighbours and fuelled anti-American sentiments in the region.

Lastly, the operation highlighted the role of the media in shaping public opinion during military interventions. The US government tightly controlled media coverage of the invasion, leading to accusations of censorship and propaganda. This raised concerns about the transparency and accountability of military operations.

In conclusion, Operation Just Cause was a pivotal moment in late 20th-century history. It not only led to the end of Noriega's dictatorship in Panama but also sparked debates about the use of military force, the respect for national sovereignty, and the role of the media in war.