Deep-Sea Mining Governance: The UN International Seabed Authority defended its authority over ocean-bed mining after The Metals Company’s subsidiaries (NORI and TOML) moved to stop an ISA compliance investigation, arguing due process and transparency issues as the ISA pushes ahead with scrutiny tied to minerals for the energy transition. Legal Showdown in the Pacific: A separate ISA response details how the regulator is handling NORI/TOML’s bid for interim relief in the Seabed Disputes Chamber, keeping pressure on how contractors are monitored under UNCLOS. Pacific Security & Shipping Risk: China’s submarine-launched, nuclear-capable ballistic missile test landed in the South Pacific near Nauru, drawing condemnation and raising fresh concerns for regional stability and the safety of nearby maritime routes. Australia–Pacific Defence Diplomacy: Australia and Fiji’s security talks were underway as the missile test hit, with Canberra refusing to reveal protest details publicly while confirming it raised concerns with Beijing. Energy Transition vs Environment: The High Seas Treaty’s new protections leave deep-sea mining exempt from its environmental impact assessment framework, a gap campaigners say could weaken seabed safeguards. Local Resource Plans (Banaba): Banaba’s Rabi Council says it has shifted away from Australian firm Centrex and is pursuing a feasibility study with Kiribati and Nauru for renewed phosphate-related extraction discussions. Climate & Operations: El Niño is underway, with forecasts pointing to stronger Pacific warming that could intensify storms and disrupt island logistics and infrastructure planning.