Deep-Sea Mining Legal Fight: Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. (NORI) and Tonga Offshore Mining Ltd. (TOML) have filed parallel cases at ITLOS’ Seabed Disputes Chamber, challenging the International Seabed Authority’s due process and transparency in an ongoing compliance inquiry—an early test of the ISA’s credibility that could shape how seabed rules evolve for Nauru-sponsored exploration. Pacific Security & Trade: Australia and Vanuatu have moved to sign the Nakamal Agreement, banning foreign military bases and requiring consultation on third-party involvement in Vanuatu’s critical infrastructure, while watering down earlier clauses that would have more directly limited Chinese investment. Regional Climate Outlook: SPREP says El Niño has been declared and may bring drier conditions for parts of the western Pacific, but also highlights potential opportunities for some Pacific Island communities. Fuel Crisis Economics: A new timeline shows how the Strait of Hormuz disruption triggered fuel and electricity price spikes across the Pacific, pushing governments to raise diesel ceilings and seek donor support, alongside renewed calls for solar and renewables. Nauru Agreement Fisheries: Ministers from PNA member states met in Majuro for the 21st PNA Ministerial Meeting, backing progress on tuna management and endorsing a tuna value-chain development pathway. Pacific Games Planning: The Micronesian Games Council confirmed Kiribati as host of the 2030 Micronesian Games, with Nauru set to host the 2028 edition.