Trump Criticizes UK Plan to Transfer Chagos Islands to Mauritius
Published 18 February 2026
Highlights
- Donald Trump criticized the UK's plan to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, calling it a "big mistake."
- The UK intends to lease back Diego Garcia for 99 years to maintain the joint US-UK military base.
- Despite Trump's criticism, the US State Department officially supports the UK-Mauritius agreement.
- Trump suggested the strategic importance of Diego Garcia in potential US-Iran conflicts.
- UK officials argue the deal is vital for national and allied security, despite Trump's opposition.
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Rewritten Article
Trump Criticizes UK Plan to Transfer Chagos Islands to Mauritius
Former US President Donald Trump has voiced strong opposition to the United Kingdom's decision to cede control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a move he describes as a "big mistake." The UK plans to lease back Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago, for 99 years to continue operating a joint military base with the United States.
Strategic Importance of Diego Garcia
Diego Garcia, strategically located in the Indian Ocean, serves as a critical military hub for both the US and UK. Trump emphasized its importance, particularly in the context of potential conflicts with Iran. He warned that relinquishing control could undermine the UK's strategic interests and its longstanding alliance with the US. "This land should not be taken away from the UK," Trump stated on his Truth Social platform, adding that the lease agreement could lead to a loss of control over the island.
Official Support and Political Reactions
Despite Trump's criticism, the US State Department has officially backed the UK's agreement with Mauritius. The UK Foreign Office maintains that the deal is essential for the security of the UK and its allies. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended the agreement, asserting it is the only viable option to ensure the long-term future of the military base. However, Trump's remarks have sparked political debate in the UK, with figures like Priti Patel and Ed Davey criticizing the government's approach.
Potential Implications for US-Iran Relations
Trump's comments also highlighted the potential use of Diego Garcia in US-Iran relations. He suggested that if Iran fails to reach a peace agreement with the US, the island could play a pivotal role in addressing threats from what he described as a "highly unstable and dangerous regime." This underscores the broader geopolitical significance of the Chagos Islands beyond the UK-Mauritius agreement.
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Scenario Analysis
The ongoing debate over the Chagos Islands' future could have significant geopolitical ramifications. If the UK proceeds with the transfer, it may strain relations with the US, particularly if Trump or a similar administration returns to power. The strategic importance of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean means any changes in its status could impact military operations and alliances in the region.
Additionally, the situation could influence US-Iran relations, as the island's military capabilities are considered crucial in addressing potential threats from Iran. The UK's decision may also prompt a reevaluation of its alliances, particularly if US support becomes uncertain. As the situation develops, the UK will need to balance its strategic interests with diplomatic relations, both regionally and globally.
Former US President Donald Trump has voiced strong opposition to the United Kingdom's decision to cede control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a move he describes as a "big mistake." The UK plans to lease back Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago, for 99 years to continue operating a joint military base with the United States.
Strategic Importance of Diego Garcia
Diego Garcia, strategically located in the Indian Ocean, serves as a critical military hub for both the US and UK. Trump emphasized its importance, particularly in the context of potential conflicts with Iran. He warned that relinquishing control could undermine the UK's strategic interests and its longstanding alliance with the US. "This land should not be taken away from the UK," Trump stated on his Truth Social platform, adding that the lease agreement could lead to a loss of control over the island.
Official Support and Political Reactions
Despite Trump's criticism, the US State Department has officially backed the UK's agreement with Mauritius. The UK Foreign Office maintains that the deal is essential for the security of the UK and its allies. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has defended the agreement, asserting it is the only viable option to ensure the long-term future of the military base. However, Trump's remarks have sparked political debate in the UK, with figures like Priti Patel and Ed Davey criticizing the government's approach.
Potential Implications for US-Iran Relations
Trump's comments also highlighted the potential use of Diego Garcia in US-Iran relations. He suggested that if Iran fails to reach a peace agreement with the US, the island could play a pivotal role in addressing threats from what he described as a "highly unstable and dangerous regime." This underscores the broader geopolitical significance of the Chagos Islands beyond the UK-Mauritius agreement.
What this might mean
The ongoing debate over the Chagos Islands' future could have significant geopolitical ramifications. If the UK proceeds with the transfer, it may strain relations with the US, particularly if Trump or a similar administration returns to power. The strategic importance of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean means any changes in its status could impact military operations and alliances in the region.
Additionally, the situation could influence US-Iran relations, as the island's military capabilities are considered crucial in addressing potential threats from Iran. The UK's decision may also prompt a reevaluation of its alliances, particularly if US support becomes uncertain. As the situation develops, the UK will need to balance its strategic interests with diplomatic relations, both regionally and globally.
