Fuel & Energy Security: Pacific economies are feeling the heat from global oil spikes after the US-Iran conflict, with reserves in places like Fiji and Solomon Islands reportedly dropping to around 20 days and transport costs lifting prices—renewables are the long-term fix, but delivery is still uneven. Tonga Budget Watch: Parliament budget debate zeroed in on fuel prices and household pressure, with MPs questioning whether the plan tackles rising costs directly while electricity subsidies are set at $18m paʻanga. Public Service & Ministry Renames: The House passed the Public Service Amendment Bill 2026, updating ministry names—Tourism is formally separated, and Lands is reshaped to reflect survey, spatial planning and natural resources. Water for Outer Islands: A solar-powered desalination project is now producing up to 4,300 litres of fresh water daily for Hunga and Matamaka, cutting reliance on costly boat deliveries. Fisheries Compliance: Tonga’s first notification under the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies was supported via a Fish Fund capacity grant, building coordination for future reporting. Maritime Cooperation: USCGC Hollyhock returned to Honolulu after Operation Blue Pacific, including law-enforcement support with Tonga’s Royal Navy in the EEZ and public tours in Nuku’alofa. Seabed Mining Tension: Nauru- and Tonga-linked companies have filed UNCLOS claims against the International Seabed Authority over deep-sea exploration contract compliance.