By Elsie Kamsiyochi
The British government has paused its planned transfer of sovereignty over the to Mauritius, following mounting opposition from the United States and renewed scrutiny over the strategic importance of the region.
At the centre of the dispute is the atoll, which hosts a critical joint UK–US military base. The installation has long been regarded as a cornerstone of Western military operations in the Indian Ocean, making any change in sovereignty highly sensitive for both London and Washington.
Officials confirmed that legislation required to formalise the agreement will not be included in the government’s upcoming parliamentary agenda. The decision effectively puts the deal on hold while diplomatic efforts continue to secure American backing. A spokesperson for Prime Minister stated that the UK remains committed to the agreement in principle but will only proceed if it has full support from the United States.
Opposition from former U.S. President has been a key factor in the delay. Trump has repeatedly criticised the proposed deal, calling it “a big mistake” and warning that it could undermine Western strategic interests. His stance reflects broader concerns within parts of the U.S. political and defence establishment about maintaining long-term operational control over Diego Garcia.
Under the proposed agreement, Britain would transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius while leasing back Diego Garcia for 99 years, ensuring continued military use by both British and American forces. UK officials argue this arrangement would secure the base’s future while resolving longstanding legal and diplomatic disputes over the territory.
The Chagos Islands have been the subject of international controversy for decades. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Britain forcibly removed up to 2,000 indigenous Chagossians to make way for the military base. Since then, displaced communities and advocacy groups have campaigned for the right to return and for recognition of their suffering.
Critics of the current deal say it fails to adequately address the rights of the Chagossian people. Campaigners argue that negotiations have largely focused on state interests, sidelining those directly affected. Some have also questioned the financial cost of the stalled agreement and whether it delivers meaningful justice or self-determination for the islanders.
The delay also comes at a time of broader tension in UK–US relations. Disagreements over foreign policy, including Britain’s cautious approach to recent conflicts involving Iran, have strained what is often described as the “special relationship.” Trump has openly criticised Starmer’s leadership, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Despite these challenges, the UK government maintains that the deal remains the best path forward—provided Washington can be persuaded. Talks with both the United States and Mauritius are ongoing, with the future of the Chagos Islands—and the balance between strategic interests and historical justice—still uncertain.
Source Reuters