Pacific Security Shock: China’s rare submarine-launched ballistic missile test fired into the South Pacific has drawn fast condemnation from Australia, Japan, New Zealand and the US, with analysts noting the launch appears to have landed near Tuvalu or Kiribati and marked a shift from China’s usual desert-only testing. Regional Diplomacy & Industry Stakes: The missile came hours after Australia and Fiji signed the Vuvale Treaty and the Ocean of Peace Alliance, deepening security cooperation and economic resilience—moves that will shape how Pacific ports, logistics and critical services plan for risk. Tuvalu Energy Pressure: The Pacific Islands Forum emergency response mechanism has been activated for a fuel and transport cost shock tied to the Iran war, with Tuvalu among those feeling the squeeze as El Niño risks compounding costs into 2027. Fisheries & Trade: The 25th Forum Fisheries Committee ministerial meeting in Wellington wrapped up with Tuvalu and other members aligning priorities for regional fisheries cooperation—important for food supply chains and livelihoods. Clean Energy Momentum: A growing number of countries cut energy taxes and expand electrification steps in response to the Iran war, while COP31 preparations in Fiji and Tuvalu gear up for the next push on implementation. Critical Minerals Watch: Mining interest is intensifying around deep-sea polymetallic nodules in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, as demand for battery metals collides with biodiversity concerns.