U.K. and U.S. debate future of Chagos Islands amid Diego Garcia uncertainty

The deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands from the United Kingdom to Mauritius is in limbo amid conflicting reports and ongoing discussions with the United States, according to U.K. officials.

Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer told Parliament that ratification of the agreement had been paused during talks with Washington. However, a U.K. government spokesperson later denied any formal suspension, emphasizing that no deadline had been set and that Britain would not proceed without U.S. support.

The disagreement has prompted criticism from opposition figures and security analysts, who warn that the uncertainty could weaken Western security amid rising international tensions. Critics argue the deal exposes vulnerabilities, especially with the strategic importance of Diego Garcia, home to a major joint military base used in operations across the Middle East, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific.

Former President Donald Trump publicly criticized the proposed deal, urging Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to abandon it. Trump, who initially supported the agreement, called it a “big mistake” on social media, warning that giving up Diego Garcia would threaten U.S. strategic interests. The White House has not issued an official stance on the deal.

The legislation related to the transfer is currently before the House of Lords, with no date set for a debate or vote. Meanwhile, Robert Midgley, a spokesman for Friends of the British Overseas Territories, urged the U.S. to oppose the agreement and support Britain’s sovereignty efforts. He warned that the deal could undermine Western security if finalized.

As the debate continues, the future of the Chagos Islands remains uncertain, with critics warning that any move to cede control could have significant geopolitical repercussions.

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