President Trump’s administration is reportedly exploring a dramatic plan to take control of the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean.
The move would potentially kill British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s controversial agreement to hand the territory to Mauritius, all while paying for the right to do so.
White House officials have drafted several alternatives to Starmer’s proposal, including a scenario in which the U.S. could acquire the islands itself to secure the strategically vital Diego Garcia military base.
The development comes as growing tensions with Iran and China’s expanding naval presence have renewed focus on Diego Garcia, one of NATO’s most important military outposts.
Trump has repeatedly blasted Starmer’s plan to surrender the islands, reportedly calling it an act of weakness and “great stupidity.”
The White House is said to be particularly concerned about Mauritius’ ties to both China and Iran, raising fears that handing over sovereignty could create new security risks around the base.
While buying the islands is not currently the administration’s preferred option, The Telegraph reports that the idea has been discussed with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and brought directly to Trump’s attention.
The White House is considering a plan to buy the Chagos Islands from Mauritius, potentially sinking Sir Keir Starmer’s plan to cede sovereignty of the territory
: https://t.co/bgMic7Kq9e pic.twitter.com/JTX41tnHs5
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) June 7, 2026
The base has become even more significant following recent military operations against Iran.
Diego Garcia’s location allows long-range bomber missions across the Middle East and provides a key strategic foothold in the Indian Ocean.
Starmer’s government originally planned to transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius while paying roughly £35 billion to lease back the base for 99 years.
JUST IN: President Trump’s White House is considering a plan to BUY the crucial Island of Diego Garcia and the Chagos Islands rather than allow the UK to “GIVE IT AWAY” to an Iran-China ally — Telegraph
YES, BUY IT!
We have a MILITARY base on Diego Garcia, don’t give it to… pic.twitter.com/nqD8jqVnXB
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) June 7, 2026
Trump initially appeared willing to consider the arrangement but reportedly turned against it after Starmer refused to allow the U,S,to use Diego Garcia during the opening phase of military action against Iran.
In March, Trump said he was “very disappointed” with the British prime minister over the issue.
Trump has repeatedly floated the idea of acquiring Greeland from Denmark, although progress appears to have stalled after intense pushback from the Danish government.
Trump Applies Heavy Pressure on Denmark for the Ownership of Greenland, Leaving Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Her Government in Full ‘Crisis Mode’
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