On October 18, 2023, US President Donald Trump publicly urged UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to refrain from handing over the island of Diego Garcia, part of the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean, to Mauritius. The appeal reflects growing tensions in the Middle East, particularly concerning nuclear negotiations with Iran, which could potentially falter entirely. Trump implied that if diplomatic efforts fail, US military bases, including the Diego Garcia facility, could play a crucial role in addressing perceived threats from Iran.

Despite earlier comments where he acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, Trump reiterated his position against the transfer of control over Diego Garcia, highlighting a long-term lease arrangement that he believes poses risks to US interests. The island has been a strategic military outpost for the US and UK in the region, from which operations in the Middle East and South Asia have been managed. The implications of any changes in its status could significantly affect military readiness and geopolitical stability in those areas.

The White House echoed Trump's stance, emphasizing the possibility of military action against Iran while still advocating for diplomatic solutions. Press Secretary Caroline Levitt noted that while the US seeks a diplomatic resolution, there are numerous justifications for military intervention. This dual approach aims to pressure Iran into compliance with international demands while maintaining a robust military posture in the region, as the potential collapse of negotiations would shift the dynamics of US-Iran relations substantially.