Regional Security: China’s nuclear-capable missile test in the South Pacific has sparked fresh unease, with Australia and New Zealand condemning the move as destabilising, while Papua New Guinea’s PM James Marape urged all major powers to “refrain” from missile testing in Pacific waters. Pacific Elders: Elders warn geopolitical rivalry is reshaping the region, calling for security to stay led by Pacific leaders and for institutions to protect sovereignty, transparency, and equal decision-making. Critical Minerals: The U.S. is putting Cook Islands seabed minerals higher on its agenda, with Ambassador Jared Novelly saying critical minerals are now a top priority and warning small island states about China’s growing influence. Local Justice: In American Samoa, police arrested two males after an alleged alcohol-fuelled assault and disturbance in Petesa, with one suspect charged and held without bail while a juvenile case proceeds separately. Gender & Culture: A global feature highlights that gender-diverse identities have long existed in Pacific cultures, including Niue’s fiafifine and Tonga’s fakaleiti. Women’s Economic Growth: Samoa’s UN Women partnership for the Markets for Change project will spotlight women-led businesses at the M4C Life-Con Pacific Women’s Market Expo (15–18 July).