Pacific Islands Forum in Palau: Leaders head to the 55th Pacific Islands Forum (Aug 30–Sept 4) in Koror under “Building Economies: Life. Action. Unity,” with unity on security and ocean resources under strain as China, the US and partners compete for influence. Security flashpoint: Forum secretary general Baron Waqa says Pacific leaders oppose missile testing in the region, after debate at Suva’s foreign ministers meeting left no joint statement—Nauru and Kiribati opposed it while Fiji backed a united approach. Nauru domestic politics—phosphate: The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) opposes the Sandpiper Marine Phosphate project, warning of poisoned water, sick children and economic collapse seen in past phosphate mining, including Nauru’s own experience. Deep-sea mining legal risk: A Pacific NGO report warns investor-state dispute rules could trigger costly lawsuits and a “chilling effect” on stronger environmental protections, naming Nauru among exposed countries. Diplomacy note: Georgian PM Irakli Kobakhidze thanked Nauru’s David Adeang for withdrawing recognition of Abkhazia and South Ossetia, and discussed establishing ties with Yaren. Regional governance—judicial wellbeing & policing: Naoero passed amendments to strengthen domestic violence protections and police powers, while a separate judiciary focus calls for institutional responsibility so workloads don’t harm judicial health. Nauru aviation: Nauru Airlines ended North Pacific Connector sectors to Pohnpei and Koror after an interim contract expired, as Australia evaluates bids for the next subsidized phase.