Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

US Backs UK-Mauritius Deal for Chagos Islands Sovereignty

2/19/2026

42 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The United States (U.S.) supports the United Kingdom's deal transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while keeping a 99-year Diego Garcia lease.
The agreement is framed as essential for UK and US security, despite U.S. President Donald Trump calling it a big mistake.
UK officials say the deal is necessary for the base's future, while opposition leaders criticize Prime Minister Keir Starmer and urge cancellation.

History

Historical Context

In 1965, the UK detached the Chagos Islands from Mauritius to establish the British Indian Ocean Territory, facilitating a U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. The forced removal of Chagossians between 1967 and 1973 has led to ongoing sovereignty disputes. In 2024, the UK agreed to transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining a 99-year lease on Diego Garcia, highlighting colonial legacies and geopolitical tensions.

1 of 2

Story summary

The United States (U.S.) supports the United Kingdom's deal transferring sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while keeping a 99-year Diego Garcia lease.
The agreement is framed as essential for UK and US security, despite U.S. President Donald Trump calling it a big mistake.
UK officials say the deal is necessary for the base's future, while opposition leaders criticize Prime Minister Keir Starmer and urge cancellation.

1 / 2