Chagos Islands Deal Stymied: Trump Review Throws UK's Plans into Uncertainty

In a dramatic twist, the UK government’s plans to hand over sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius have been put on hold as incoming US President Donald Trump prepares to take office. This deal, initially greenlit by the Biden administration, was designed to resolve long-standing disputes over the islands, which have hosted a critical US-UK military base on Diego Garcia since the 1960s. Despite the UK Prime Minister’s office stating that it was reasonable for the Trump administration to review the deal, critics like shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel have labeled the move a ‘complete humiliation’ for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. The Chagos Islands have been a contentious issue since 1965 when the UK took control from Mauritius and forcibly removed the local population. Mauritius has consistently claimed sovereignty, culminating in a UN ruling that deemed UK administration unlawful. While the UK aimed to finalize the deal before Trump’s inauguration, developments on the Mauritian side have led to a delay, with the Prime Minister’s legal representatives heading to London for further negotiations.

Amidst concerns over national security and the potential for increased Chinese influence in the region, Sir Keir Starmer defended the agreement, linking it to the operation of Diego Garcia. Tensions highlight a broader geopolitical struggle, as figures like Nigel Farage warn that the deal might jeopardize US-UK relations. The Chagossians, who are spread across different countries and have mixed views about the deal, could see the promised resettlement programs if it goes through, yet their lack of consultation on the agreement raises significant concerns. Overall, the delay in the implementation of this treaty represents not just a negotiation challenge but also a pivotal moment in the UK’s foreign policy and its intricate relationship with the US.