Does the US Support the UK Chagos Islands Deal?

The US government's recent endorsement of the UK's plan to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, while retaining control over the strategic military base on Diego Garcia, marks a significant shift in geopolitical dynamics. This agreement, supported by the US Department of State, aims to strengthen security cooperation in the Indian Ocean and solidify the UK's military presence in the region.

Last updated: 13 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In a notable development, the US has officially backed the UK's agreement to hand over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back Diego Garcia for a term of 99 years. This decision comes after fluctuations in US President Donald Trump's stance on the deal, reflecting a more stable alignment ahead of crucial discussions between the US and Mauritius next week. The US Department of State stated that this move aims to ensure continued military operations on Diego Garcia, which is vital for both US and UK national security interests in the Indian Ocean.

Key takeaways

The US has officially supported the UK's plan to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius.
The UK will lease back Diego Garcia for 99 years, securing military access.
This agreement is valued at £3.4 billion ($4.6 billion) and is seen as crucial for regional stability.

Timeline: how we got here

Here is a brief timeline highlighting key events leading to the current agreement regarding the Chagos Islands:

1814: The British take control of the Chagos Islands.
1965: The islands are established as the British Indian Ocean Territory.
May 2023: The UK signs a deal worth £3.4 billion with Mauritius.
September 2023: Trump’s comments fluctuate on the agreement, leading to uncertainty.
October 2023: The US officially backs the UK’s decision.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest announcement of US support reinforces the UK's position regarding the Chagos Islands and highlights the strategic importance of Diego Garcia. The upcoming talks in Port Louis, Mauritius, will focus on security cooperation and the implementation of the new arrangements.

What was already established

Previously, there was contention over the legality of the UK’s control over the Chagos Islands, with Mauritius claiming that the islands were ceded under duress as part of a deal for independence. The UK’s military presence, particularly on Diego Garcia, has been a cornerstone of its defence strategy in the Indian Ocean.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

This geopolitical agreement may indirectly affect UK consumers, particularly in terms of national security perceptions and potential shifts in defence spending. The ongoing military presence is intended to enhance security in the region, which can have broader implications for international relations.

Businesses and jobs

The deal is likely to have a stabilising effect on businesses connected to defence and security sectors in the UK. Additionally, the ongoing military operations on Diego Garcia may create job opportunities related to logistics and support services.

Policy and regulation

UK policymakers will need to navigate the complexities of this agreement while addressing domestic concerns about sovereignty and historical injustices related to the Chagos Islands. The UK government has reiterated its commitment to national security while managing international relations with Mauritius and the US.

Numbers that matter

£3.4 billion: The financial value of the deal between the UK and Mauritius.
99 years: The duration of the lease back of Diego Garcia to the UK.
1814: The year the British took control of the Chagos Islands.
1,250 miles: The distance from Mauritius to the Chagos Islands.
5,799 miles: The distance from the UK to the Chagos Islands.

Definitions and jargon buster

Chagos Islands: A group of islands in the Indian Ocean that forms part of the British Indian Ocean Territory.
Diego Garcia: The largest island in the Chagos archipelago, used as a military base by the UK and US.
Overseas territory: A territory under the jurisdiction of the UK but not part of the United Kingdom itself.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, the focus will be on the talks scheduled for next week in Mauritius, where security cooperation will be a central theme. This will be crucial for solidifying the framework of the agreement.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the agreement is implemented, monitoring developments regarding the military operations on Diego Garcia will be essential. The UK and Mauritius will need to work closely to ensure the effective execution of the terms of the deal.

Signals to watch

Statements from the US Department of State following the talks in Mauritius.
Reactions from the UK government regarding public sentiment on the transfer of the islands.
Any legal challenges from Mauritius or international bodies concerning the sovereignty of the islands.

Practical guidance

Do

Stay informed about developments in the UK-Mauritius relationship.
Monitor changes in defence policies that may arise from this agreement.
Engage with community discussions regarding the historical context of the Chagos Islands.

Don’t

Ignore the potential implications for UK national security.
Dismiss the historical grievances of Mauritius regarding the islands.
Assume the agreement will proceed without any legal or political hurdles.

Checklist

Understand the basics of the agreement and its implications.
Follow news updates about the talks in Mauritius.
Research the historical context of the Chagos Islands dispute.
Consider the broader geopolitical implications for the UK.
Engage with local representatives about community concerns.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the US backing brings a sense of certainty to the agreement, various risks remain. Legal challenges from Mauritius or international entities could arise, questioning the legitimacy of the UK’s control over the islands. Additionally, any shifts in US foreign policy could impact the future of Diego Garcia as a military base. Public sentiment in both the UK and Mauritius about the historical context of the islands may also pose challenges in the future.

Bottom line

The recent endorsement by the US of the UK’s plan for the Chagos Islands signals a critical step towards solidifying military and diplomatic relations in the Indian Ocean. However, ongoing discussions and historical grievances must be acknowledged as the UK navigates this complex situation, balancing national security interests with international relations.

FAQs

What is the significance of the Chagos Islands for the UK?

The Chagos Islands, particularly Diego Garcia, are crucial for UK military operations in the Indian Ocean, serving as a strategic base for both the UK and US armed forces.

How long will the lease for Diego Garcia last?

The UK will lease back Diego Garcia for a duration of 99 years under the new agreement with Mauritius.

What are the historical claims of Mauritius regarding the Chagos Islands?

Mauritius claims that it was forced to cede the Chagos Islands to the UK under duress during negotiations for independence, which has led to ongoing legal and diplomatic disputes.