Chagos Islands Sovereignty Challenge Falls Flat in High Court

London's High Court rejected a legal challenge against Britain's agreement with Mauritius over Chagos Islands sovereignty. The deal retains British control of the Diego Garcia military base under a 99-year lease. The claimants plan to appeal, questioning governmental decisions made without consulting Chagossians.

In a significant ruling on Tuesday, London's High Court declined to hear a legal challenge concerning Britain's agreement with Mauritius to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands, where the Diego Garcia air base is located.

Claimants, including Bertrice Pompe, opposed the agreement, arguing they were not properly consulted. The deal, arranged last year, permits Britain to maintain strategic military control of the base through a 99-year lease with the U.S.

The court's decision comes amidst controversy, with U.S. President Donald Trump criticizing the agreement as misguided, drawing comparisons to historic British leadership. Despite legal setbacks, the claimants remain determined to contest the ruling in the Court of Appeal.

(With inputs from agencies.)