The strategic military base located on the small island of Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, operated by the United States and the United Kingdom, is at the centre of a growing geopolitical dispute. Currently, the base serves as a vital hub for military operations in the Middle East, Pacific, and Africa, playing a crucial role in the US’s ongoing engagements in regions like Yemen and in deterring Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
However, the base’s future is now uncertain. In a deal supported by both the Biden administration in the US and the former Trump administration, the British government is set to hand over sovereignty of Diego Garcia, along with other islands in the Chagos Archipelago, to Mauritius. The UK, however, plans to lease back the military base in an agreement that has raised concerns, particularly regarding China’s growing influence in the region.
In recent weeks, the base has hosted a significant military presence, including a third of the US’s B-2 bomber fleet and large missile destroyers, reinforcing its strategic importance. Despite this, there are growing fears that the deal with Mauritius could lead to China gaining influence over the islands. Already, Mauritius has developed closer ties with Beijing, signing a free trade agreement in 2021, and becoming increasingly reliant on Chinese imports.
The history of Diego Garcia is rooted in colonialism. The islands were part of British-controlled Mauritius until 1965 when they were detached and retained by the UK. Mauritius’s independence in 1968 resulted in the forced removal of the island’s native population, a move that remains controversial. The US military’s presence began shortly after, during the Cold War, and continues to this day, with the base providing critical logistical support for US military operations worldwide.
Recent rulings, such as a 2019 decision by the United Nations International Court of Justice, have pressured the UK to return the islands to Mauritius, arguing that their detachment was unlawful. Despite these international pressures, some US officials warn that relinquishing control of Diego Garcia could create a security vacuum, with China potentially seizing the opportunity to neutralise the base’s strategic advantages.
Supporters of the transfer argue that the deal will provide legal certainty for the base’s operations, ensuring its continued use under a 99-year lease. However, critics argue that the deal risks undermining the security of the US and UK, especially as China continues to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean.
