Trump Urges UK to Retain Indian Ocean Territory Amid Iran Tensions

Diego Garcia has served as a key hub for U.S. and UK military operations in the Indian Ocean for decades.
Trump Urges UK to Retain Indian Ocean Territory Amid Iran Tensions
A U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bomber taxis after conducting a combat mission at Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory, on April 16, 2025. Anthony Hetlage/U.S. Air Force
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U.S. President Donald Trump on Feb. 18 urged British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to retain control of Diego Garcia, saying the island territory could help deter future aggression by Iran.

“Should Iran decide not to make a Deal, it may be necessary for the United States to use Diego Garcia and the Airfield located in Fairford, in order to eradicate a potential attack by a highly unstable and dangerous Regime. An attack that would potentially be made on the United Kingdom, as well as other friendly Countries,” Trump wrote in his Truth Social Post.

Ryan Morgan
Ryan Morgan
Author
Ryan Morgan is a reporter for The Epoch Times focusing on military and foreign affairs.
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