U.S. President Donald Trump criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leasing the Diego Garcia air base, calling it a "big mistake" on Truth Social. Trump claimed Starmer was "losing control" of the strategically vital island to unknown entities, raising concerns about sovereignty and security.

Under a 2025 agreement, Britain will transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining control of the U.S.-UK air base on Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease. Trump suggested the U.S. might need to use Diego Garcia and RAF Fairford to counter potential Iranian attacks if nuclear negotiations fail.

The dispute highlights tensions over the Chagos Islands deal, with Trump questioning the legitimacy of transferring control to Mauritius while maintaining U.S. military access. The agreement remains controversial as both nations navigate complex geopolitical and strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.