Britain May Notify Mauritius of Iran Strikes from Diego Garcia

Britain may need to inform Mauritius about future air strikes on Iran from the Chagos Islands, following a recent deal. The Diego Garcia military base, operated jointly by the UK and US in the Chagos Islands, has been used in past bombing campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The new agreement, negotiated by Sir Keir Starmer, involves giving Mauritius control over the islands and leasing back the base.

Under the terms of the deal, Britain is required to notify Mauritius if the base is used to launch an attack on a third country, such as Iran.

The treaty stated that Britain will “expeditiously inform Mauritius of any armed attack on a third state directly emanating from the base.”

However, officials said they would notify Mauritius after an attack occurs, not before, and the treaty is unclear on whether prior notice is required.

Legal experts, including Philippe Sands, noted that the treaty’s wording could be interpreted differently.

Mauritius might argue Britain should give advance notice of planned strikes.

Critics of the deal, which has not yet taken effect, express concern that it could limit Britain’s military actions and reveal strategic plans to Mauritius.

The US has recently stationed B-2 long-range bombers at Diego Garcia, which could be used if President Trump decides to attack Iran.

The UK has not confirmed whether it would block US military use of the base for an attack, with a Downing Street spokesman refusing to speculate.

There are also concerns about Mauritius’s diplomatic ties with Iran.

Reports indicated that Mauritius has engaged with Iran over educational partnerships, raising fears that Iranian influence could extend to spying at Diego Garcia.

Mauritius and Iran maintain good relations and are exploring economic links.

Opposition figures, like Lord Hermer, have warned that the deal could weaken Britain’s strategic position by sharing military plans with Mauritius.

Mark Francois, the shadow Armed Forces Minister, criticized the deal as costly and unnecessary, especially since the UK already owns the strategic facility.

He argued that paying £30 billion and then needing to inform third countries about military operations is impractical and risky.

Source: Telegraph