Immigration Detention & Human Rights: A man convicted of murdering his wife has started a hunger strike at Nauru after deportation from Western Australia, calling the facility a “hellhole” and protesting his transfer. Critical Minerals & Supply Chains: A new push for critical minerals is turning resources into trade leverage, with producer countries demanding a bigger share of benefits as extraction legacies and supply-chain risks shape policy. Pacific Connectivity & Tourism: The Pacific Tourism Organisation urged tighter coordination between tourism, airlines and airports at the ASPA meeting in the Cook Islands, saying air links are the key to sustainable growth for island economies. Indo-Pacific Strategy & Ports: The Quad’s New Delhi push includes a Fiji port project and broader maritime, energy and technology initiatives, while critics argue Pacific voices are sidelined as decisions are made externally. Nauru–China Trade & Development: Nauru’s president says cooperation with China since diplomatic ties resumed in 2024 is exceeding expectations, with an “immense opportunity” for economic transformation. Food Security & Imports: Nauru’s high commissioner says Vietnam is a model partner for supplying essential goods, boosting tuna and seafood cooperation, and supporting infrastructure—important for Nauru’s import-dependent food system. Climate Accountability: The UN backed a resolution affirming states’ legal duties to tackle climate change, but the US voted against it, citing political demands around fossil fuels. Deep-Sea Mining Rules: The UN seabed mining regulator says Pacific countries are shaping the future framework as interest grows in deep-sea minerals, including around Nauru’s region.