Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration is reportedly exploring a plan to purchase the Chagos Islands directly from Mauritius, potentially undermining UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s initiative to transfer sovereignty of the islands to Mauritius. According to a report by The Telegraph, White House officials have drafted alternative proposals to bypass Britain and negotiate directly with Mauritius to ensure continued U.S. control over the strategic Diego Garcia military base.

The report states that among several options under review, the idea of buying the islands has been presented to President Trump by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besent, though it is not yet the main policy choice. The renewed focus on Diego Garcia’s strategic importance follows rising tensions involving Iran and China’s expanding naval capabilities. Analysts cited in the report warn that if Mauritius, seen as close to China, gains control, it could heighten maritime intelligence risks.

The British government remains committed to its agreement with Mauritius, under which the islands would be transferred and the U.S. would lease Diego Garcia for 99 years. A British minister recently said there is no realistic prospect of the U.S. purchasing the islands.