A simmering dispute over the Chagos Islands, a strategically vital archipelago in the Indian Ocean, has reignited following sharp criticism from former President Donald Trump. His unexpected intervention casts a shadow over an agreement poised to return sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius, a nation from which they were controversially separated decades ago.
Trump publicly denounced the deal as an “act of great stupidity” on his social media platform, questioning the wisdom of relinquishing control of Diego Garcia, a key U.S. military base located within the Chagos Islands. He warned that China and Russia were undoubtedly observing what he characterized as a display of weakness.
The Chagos Islands’ separation from Mauritius occurred during Britain’s decolonization period, a move later deemed unlawful by the International Court of Justice in 2019. A subsequent agreement proposed transferring sovereignty to Mauritius while securing a long-term lease – at least 99 years – for the U.S. to continue operating the crucial Diego Garcia base, with the U.K. receiving annual payments exceeding $160 million.
Diego Garcia is far more than just an island; it’s a linchpin of American military power projection. Home to roughly 2,500 personnel, primarily American, the base serves as a critical hub for long-range bombers, logistical operations, and intelligence gathering across vast regions including the Middle East, the Indo-Pacific, and Africa.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed that discussions with the U.S. had been reopened in light of Trump’s objections. He revealed having previously engaged with Trump on the issue multiple times, while also noting that the White House had been contacted repeatedly over the past week to address concerns.
Starmer recalled a previous pause in the agreement when the Trump administration first took office, a deliberate three-month period granted to allow for a thorough assessment of the deal. Ultimately, the administration signaled its support, and public announcements were made affirming that position.
Downing Street officials have indicated they are actively working to “allay any concerns” in Washington, emphasizing the importance of the agreement for both U.S. and U.K. security interests. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts underway to navigate the renewed complexities introduced by Trump’s forceful stance.
The controversy highlights the delicate balance between historical grievances, strategic alliances, and the evolving geopolitical landscape. The fate of the Chagos Islands, and the vital military installation they host, hangs in the balance as negotiations continue.
