The UK government faces mounting confusion over its proposed transfer of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, following contradictory statements from officials and renewed criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer told Parliament on February 26, 2026, that legal steps to finalize the sovereignty handover were paused for further U.S. consultations, but other officials later denied any delay, calling his remarks a misstatement.
The controversy intensified after Trump urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer last week to abandon the agreement, reversing his earlier support. On Truth Social, Trump called the plan "a blight on our great ally" and cited potential military needs related to Iran. The Chagos Islands host the Diego Garcia base, a strategic UK-U.S. asset in the Indian Ocean.
Under the proposed deal, the UK would transfer sovereignty to Mauritius while leasing back Diego Garcia for £101 million annually. Legislation to ratify the agreement remains pending, with Parliament demanding clarity on timelines. Analysts warn the dispute could strain UK-U.S. relations and complicate security partnerships in Asia and beyond.
The archipelago, under British control since the 19th century, has long been a flashpoint for decolonization debates. Mauritius claims historical sovereignty, while displaced Chagossians seek reparations. The current impasse underscores the delicate balance between post-colonial redress and geopolitical pragmatism in 2026.
