Seabed Minerals Rules Fight: A new push to extract deep-sea minerals is also a fight over who gets to write the rules, with Nauru Ocean Resources Inc. and Tonga Offshore Mining Ltd. tied to International Seabed Authority disputes that could reshape accountability for “global commons” mining. Ocean Protection vs Jobs: Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr. says Pacific leaders must balance marine conservation with economic development as seas rise and marine resources face pressure, pointing to sanctuary protections alongside the need for “production” that benefits communities. Whale Sanctuary Setback: A South Atlantic whale sanctuary bid failed again at the International Whaling Commission, with Nauru among the countries voting against, underscoring ongoing strain between conservation goals and member-state positions. Pacific Deep-Sea Mining Pressure: Legal and geopolitical drivers are pushing a rush for Pacific earth minerals, raising concerns that investors can bypass domestic courts through offshore dispute systems. Nauru/ICC Sovereignty Move: The US congratulated Naoero (formerly Nauru) after it announced withdrawal from the International Criminal Court, framing it as standing up for sovereignty. Local Climate-Disaster Reality: Myanmar’s Dawei region faces flooding and landslides with a rising death toll, while fighting and attacks add further strain to already vulnerable communities.