🏛️🇬🇧 UK transfers Chagos Islands to Mauritius with US backing

Oneliner

The UK is set to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back the Diego Garcia military base for 99 years. US President Trump has expressed support for the agreement, which is crucial for military operations. However, the deal faces domestic criticism, particularly from the Conservative Party, over national security concerns. A draft law to ratify the agreement is currently progressing through Parliament.

Key points

• The UK will transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back Diego Garcia for 99 years.
• US President Trump has expressed support for the agreement, emphasizing military interests in the region.
• The deal has faced criticism domestically, particularly from the Conservative Party, citing national security concerns.
• A draft law to ratify the agreement is currently progressing through Parliament.

Links

• BBC News: Trump backs Chagos handover deal, says No 10
• BBC News: What is the UK's Chagos Islands deal and why has Trump criticised it?

Facts

• The Chagos Islands deal includes a 99-year lease for the Diego Garcia military base.
• Trump's support follows previous criticism of the agreement.
• The deal has been criticized by the Conservative Party and Reform UK.
• A draft law to ratify the agreement is under consideration in Parliament.

Quotes

• I understand that the deal Prime Minister Starmer has made, according to many, the best he could make — Donald Trump
• We have led the fight against this appalling surrender and we will continue fighting it to the end — Dame Priti Patel

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