UK puts Chagos sovereignty plan on hold following opposition from Trump

Supporters and members of the British Indian Ocean territory Chagos Archipelago hold placards and the territory's flag outside the Houses of Parliament in London on 7 January 2026, to protest against a proposed plan by the British government to hand over the islands to Mauritius. AFP - HENRY NICHOLLS

The UK has paused plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, throwing the future of a long-negotiated deal into uncertainty as London seeks backing from Washington.

The proposed agreement – which would see Britain cede control of the Indian Ocean archipelago while retaining access to the strategically vital Diego Garcia military base – has run into opposition from US President Donald Trump, complicating efforts by Prime Minister Keir Starmer to push the legislation through parliament.