UK Reverses Chagos Islands Handover Plan Following Trump Criticism

The United Kingdom has reversed its plan to hand over the Chagos Islands after facing criticism from Donald Trump. The decision marks a significant shift from the previous position, which had moved toward transferring sovereignty of the Indian Ocean territory. Trump publicly opposed the handover, citing strategic and security concerns tied to the U.S. military base on Diego Garcia. In response, UK officials have paused the process and indicated they will reassess the agreement, weighing the diplomatic relationship with the United States against ongoing international pressure regarding the islands’ status. The reversal reopens questions about the long-term future of the Chagos Archipelago and the rights of displaced Chagossians.