UK Freezes Deal to Return Chagos Islands to Mauritius

Deal Suspended Amid Tensions with U.S. President

The UK has halted its plan to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius following backlash from President Donald Trump. Central to the dispute is the shared military base on Diego Garcia, which remains vital for joint operations between the United Kingdom and the United States. London had previously agreed to the handover last year, but Trump’s opposition has stalled the process.

“We continue to believe the agreement is the best way to protect the long-term future of the base, but we would only proceed with the deal if it has U.S. support,” stated the British government.

Trump initially appeared to endorse the arrangement but later denounced it as “an act of great stupidity.” This criticism comes as the islands are set to be transferred under a 99-year lease, allowing the U.S. to retain operational control. The deal required formal approval from Washington, which the UK had been awaiting.

Strained Relations Highlight Diplomatic Impact

Trump’s second term has seen the UK-US alliance reach its lowest point in history, with the Chagos Islands issue amplifying existing tensions. His disputes with NATO allies over Greenland and Iran have weakened transatlantic ties. In January, Trump claimed the deal demonstrated “total weakness,” which he used to justify efforts to claim Greenland from Denmark.

Indigenous Group Voices Concern

The Chagossian people, 2,000 of whom were relocated during the 1960s and 1970s to make way for the base, have expressed dismay over the delayed transfer. “This has been framed as a state-to-state matter, yet the Chagossians—especially elders and survivors—have borne the brunt,” said Toby Noskwith of the Indigenous Chagossian People campaign group.

Mauritius, located 2,000 kilometers southwest of the islands, remains determined to complete the decolonization process. “We will pursue all diplomatic and legal avenues to reclaim the Chagos Islands,” emphasized Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful.