Donald Trump recently criticized the UK’s decision to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. This came right after the US State Department approved the plan. Trump warned that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is “making a big mistake.” He believes this deal could jeopardize the military presence on Diego Garcia, a critical US-UK military base.
Historically, the Chagos Islands became part of British territory in 1814. In the 1960s, when Mauritius was gaining independence, the UK detached the Chagos Islands. It then evicted the local population to build the military base on Diego Garcia. This base has strategic importance, especially for operations in the Indian Ocean.
In 2019, Mauritius won a legal battle for the islands’ sovereignty at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The ICJ urged the UK to hand them back, and the UN even gave the UK a six-month deadline to comply.
As part of the deal, the UK will keep a 99-year lease on Diego Garcia, estimated to cost around £100 million (about $135 million) annually. A spokesperson from the UK government emphasized that this agreement is vital for national security and the safety of allies.
Despite previous criticisms of the deal, Trump seemed to backtrack after talking with Starmer, stating he had made “the best deal he could.” However, he later expressed concerns about potential threats from Iran, suggesting the US may need to use Diego Garcia to counter any aggression. He emphasized the importance of a strong stance against various issues facing the UK today.
Meanwhile, the Chagossian community, displaced years ago, has been advocating for the right to return to their homeland. Many have settled in the UK and continue to fight for recognition and justice.
This evolving situation highlights the intersection of international diplomacy, military strategy, and human rights. As the geopolitics shift, the narratives surrounding these islands remain complex and layered. For additional insights on the historical context and its ongoing implications, you may refer to trusted sources like the BBC History or the International Court of Justice.
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