Overview

• The UK has agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius under a 99-year lease arrangement, retaining access to the Diego Garcia military base.
• Critics warn the deal could allow Chinese or Iranian influence near the strategically vital US-UK base, raising security concerns in the Indian Ocean region.
• The agreement follows a 2019 International Court of Justice advisory opinion that deemed the UK's control of the islands unlawful, though the ruling is not legally binding.
• UK officials argue the deal ensures long-term stability for the base, while avoiding potential legal disputes that could disrupt operations or invite foreign interference.
• The decision has sparked domestic and international debate, with former officials and opposition leaders questioning its implications for Western security and the UK-US alliance.