US President Donald Trump has urged UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer not to transfer control of Diego Garcia to Mauritius. His comments come at a time of rising tensions between the United States and Iran over a possible nuclear deal.
Under a 2025 agreement, the United Kingdom plans to return the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. However, the deal allows the US-UK military base on Diego Garcia to continue operating under a 99-year lease.
President Trump described the decision to hand over the islands and then lease back the military base as a “big mistake.” He said Diego Garcia is strategically important for security in the region. According to Trump, the US may need to use the base if tensions with Iran increase, especially if Tehran refuses to agree to a nuclear deal after talks in Geneva.
Trump added that the United States stands ready to defend its NATO ally, the United Kingdom, if necessary. He urged the British government to remain strong and carefully consider the security challenges ahead.
Diego Garcia is seen as a key military location in the Indian Ocean, used for naval and air operations. The issue has drawn international attention because of its importance for regional security and global military strategy.
The situation comes as diplomatic efforts continue between the US and Iran over the future of the nuclear agreement.