US Republicans fear UK Chagos Islands deal will boost China
Strategic Concerns: Some U.S. Republicans worry that ceding control of the Chagos Islands, particularly Diego Garcia, could potentially weaken the strategic military
China's Influence in the Region: The fear is that as Mauritius gains control over the islands, it could open the door to Chinese influence, particularly given China's increasing presence
Critical U.S. Military Base: Diego Garcia houses a key U.S. military base that plays a pivotal role in American military operations across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia
Mauritius-China Relations: Republicans are concerned about Mauritius' existing economic ties with China.
Strategic Foothold at Risk: Diego Garcia is the only U.S. base in the Indian Ocean, and losing influence over the island might reduce the U.S.'s ability to project power
Possible Lease Renegotiations: Although the deal allows the U.S. to maintain its base, future lease renegotiations
Wider Geopolitical Shift: The Indian Ocean is increasingly becoming a theater of competition between the U.S. and China, with China building ports and naval facilities in the region.
Global Security Impact: U.S. Republicans argue that a weakened hold on Diego Garcia could undermine global security