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Starmer's Chagos Islands Plan Stalls Amid U.S. Treaty

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's plan to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius stalls over a 60-year-old U.S. treaty preserving UK sovereignty.
President Donald Trump condemned the deal, calling it "an act of great stupidity," undermining Starmer's assurances of U.S. support.
The U.K. government says the agreement is crucial for the Diego Garcia military base's future.
The House of Lords has postponed debate amid fears of breaching international law.

History

Historical Context

The Chagos Archipelago, separated from Mauritius in 1965, became a British Overseas Territory to facilitate a U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. Following international legal rulings, the UK agreed in 2025 to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining control over Diego Garcia for 99 years. This agreement reflects ongoing tensions over colonial legacies and geopolitical interests in the Indian Ocean.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's plan to cede the Chagos Islands to Mauritius stalls over a 60-year-old U.S. treaty preserving UK sovereignty.
President Donald Trump condemned the deal, calling it "an act of great stupidity," undermining Starmer's assurances of U.S. support.
The U.K. government says the agreement is crucial for the Diego Garcia military base's future.
The House of Lords has postponed debate amid fears of breaching international law.

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