UK's Chagos Islands Deal Faces Legal Block Amid Political and Public Controversy
May 22, 2025
The political landscape surrounding this deal has been contentious, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer under scrutiny for prioritizing international law over national security concerns.
An injunction was granted on May 22, 2025, by Mr. Justice Goose, following an application from Bertrice Pompe, a representative of the Chagossian community.
Despite opposition from some quarters, key allies of the UK, including the United States and NATO, support the treaty, emphasizing its importance for regional security.
Critics, including former Conservative defense minister Grant Shapps, have described the plan as detrimental to the UK's global standing, calling it a 'global laughing stock'.
The plaintiffs argue that the decision to proceed with the deal was made without adequate participation from the indigenous Chagossian population, continuing a history of neglect.
Starmer has defended the treaty, asserting its strategic importance for global GPS operations and satellite monitoring, particularly concerning the Diego Garcia base.
The recent judgement adds to the challenges faced by Starmer in finalizing the deal, which has been stalled due to political complications and public discontent.
Despite setbacks, Pompe and her allies plan to continue their legal and political fight, emphasizing that their struggle for recognition and rights is far from over.
The UK government is currently facing a legal block on a controversial deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while leasing back a military base.
Chagossian activists have expressed frustration, feeling that their concerns were inadequately addressed during negotiations with government officials.
The deal's progress has been complicated by changes in Mauritius' leadership, with the new Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam opposing the agreement and labeling it a 'sellout'.
As this breaking news story develops, further updates are anticipated regarding the legal and political ramifications of the deal.
Summary based on 91 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • May 22, 2025
High court judge blocks UK from concluding Chagos Islands deal
The Guardian • May 23, 2025
British Chagossians accuse UK government of betrayal over sovereignty deal
BBC News • May 22, 2025
Starmer speaking on UK's deal to hand over Chagos Islands to Mauritius
BBC News • May 22, 2025
UK to sign Chagos deal with Mauritius