The British government has paused plans to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, including the strategically vital island of Diego Garcia, to Mauritius, following mounting pressure from President Donald Trump and opposition from U.K. conservatives.

According to Politico, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s administration will “pause for thought” before advancing legislation that would shift ownership of the island chain. A senior U.K. government official briefed on the matter said long-term plans remain unclear.

The Chagos Islands host Diego Garcia, a critical joint U.S.-U.K. military base used by the United States for long-range bomber operations. The base has played a central role in America’s Middle East posture and could prove essential if tensions with Iran escalate into open conflict.

Trump has publicly urged Britain to abandon any proposal that would place Diego Garcia under Mauritian sovereignty through a long-term lease arrangement. On Truth Social, Trump warned that entering into a 100-year lease would weaken British control over a strategically indispensable asset.

“I have been telling Prime Minister Keir Starmer… that Leases are no good when it comes to Countries,” Trump wrote, arguing that relinquishing sovereignty over Diego Garcia would be a mistake. He emphasized that the island could be crucial if Iran refuses to strike a nuclear deal and military action becomes necessary.

Trump also pointed to the broader strategic landscape, warning that Iran poses a threat not only to the United States but to British and allied interests. “DO NOT GIVE AWAY DIEGO GARCIA!” he wrote, calling on the U.K. to remain strong “in the face of Wokeism.”

The base has recently supported significant U.S. deployments. During last year’s regional buildup, the Pentagon positioned B-2 and B-52 bombers on Diego Garcia. The Jerusalem Post has described the facility as one of the most important operational hubs outside U.S. borders, noting the unique capabilities of the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, which can conduct ultra-long-range missions with aerial refueling.

With American naval and air assets already moving into position amid rising tensions with Tehran, the future status of Diego Garcia carries heightened geopolitical weight. Britain’s decision to pause the transfer signals recognition of the island’s enduring strategic value at a moment of growing instability in the Middle East.