High Court Blocks Legal Challenge over Chagos Islands Deal

London's High Court denied a legal challenge against the UK's agreement with Mauritius to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands. The deal maintains U.S. operations on Diego Garcia. The case was brought by claimants including a British national born in Diego Garcia, arguing a lack of Chagossians' consultation.

In a pivotal decision, London's High Court has rejected a legal bid to challenge the UK's controversial agreement with Mauritius concerning the Chagos Islands.

The contested deal, which allows Britain to maintain control of the strategic U.S.-UK base on Diego Garcia under a 99-year lease, has drawn criticism from various quarters, including former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Claimants, including Bertrice Pompe, have expressed grievances over the lack of consultation with Chagossians, but Judge Mary Stacey concluded that the arguments presented have been previously dismissed by English courts.

(With inputs from agencies.)