UK suspends Chagos Islands handover to Mauritius amid security concerns

Yesterday 18:00

By: Sahili Aya

UK suspends Chagos Islands handover to Mauritius amid security concerns

The United Kingdom has suspended the ratification process of an agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, according to a BBC report on Wednesday. The archipelago includes an island hosting a major US-UK military base, a key factor in the decision.

British Foreign Minister Hamish Falconer told lawmakers that the suspension follows concerns raised by the United States. “We are currently addressing these concerns directly with the US,” he said, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic discussions.

Earlier this year, former US President Donald Trump criticized the agreement, describing the potential handover as a “great stupidity” due to strategic and national security considerations. The decision highlights the delicate balance between international agreements and military interests in strategically important territories.