Diego Garcia: A Strategic Island at the Center of International Dispute

Former US President Donald Trump has voiced strong opposition to the United Kingdom’s plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including the strategically vital Diego Garcia, to Mauritius. Trump’s intervention adds a new layer of complexity to a decades-long dispute with significant geopolitical implications.

Trump’s Criticism and Concerns

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, “This land should not be taken away from the U.K.” He characterized such a move as “a blight on our Great Ally.” This statement comes despite the US State Department’s earlier endorsement of London’s plan to cede sovereignty to Mauritius while retaining a 99-year lease for the Diego Garcia military base.

Trump argued against long-term leases, telling UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that they are “no good when it comes to Countries.” He emphasized the island’s crucial location in the Indian Ocean, stating it is “strategically located in the Indian Ocean.” He also expressed concern that Prime Minister Starmer is “losing control of this important Island by claims of entities never known of before.”

Strategic Importance and Potential Use Against Iran

Diego Garcia, the largest island in the Chagos Archipelago, serves as a critical military base for both the UK and the US armed forces. Its location makes it a key asset for projecting power in the Indian Ocean and beyond. Trump even suggested the possibility of utilizing Diego Garcia in the event of a breakdown in negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program.

“Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia… in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime,” Trump warned. This statement underscores the US’s continued focus on Iran’s nuclear ambitions and its willingness to consider military options.

A History of Shifting Positions and the Mauritius Claim

Trump’s stance on the issue has been notably fluid, shifting from labeling the planned transfer as “an act of great stupidity” to later calling it the “best” deal possible. This inconsistency highlights the complex political considerations at play.

Mauritius has long maintained that the Chagos Islands were illegally separated from its territory as a condition of British independence in 1965. The islands were purchased by the UK for £3m in 1965, establishing them as an overseas territory. Mauritius argues that this separation was unlawful and seeks the return of the archipelago.

The Future of Diego Garcia

The future of Diego Garcia remains uncertain. Upcoming talks between the US and Mauritius are expected to address the issue, and Trump’s intervention adds further pressure to the negotiations. The dispute highlights the delicate balance between strategic interests, historical claims, and international law. The situation is being closely watched by regional powers and international observers alike.

For more information on the Chagos Islands dispute, you can visit Britannica’s entry on the Chagos Archipelago.