Nuclear-Free Pacific Under Strain: China’s nuclear-capable ballistic missile test into the South Pacific Nuclear-Free Zone has sparked fresh alarm in the region, with analysts saying it’s a political signal to U.S. allies and critics warning it undermines the “ocean of peace” goal and Treaty of Rarotonga commitments. Marshall Islands in the Crosshairs: The missile’s flight path reportedly passed near U.S. tracking facilities and over the Marshall Islands’ region, renewing debate about how nuclear-free rules are applied in practice. Coral Reef Heat Stress: New reporting on extreme heat and coral reefs highlights how El Niño can add extra warming on top of already-stressed reefs, raising the risk of severe bleaching across Asia and the Pacific. Typhoon Bavi Readiness: U.S. and regional emergency teams are urging residents in the Marianas to prepare for Typhoon Bavi as forecasts point to rapid intensification toward super typhoon strength. Ocean Safety at Sea: A Marshall Islands-flagged tanker in Estonia’s waters saw a fatal incident after painting work in a ballast tank left two crew members seriously ill, with one evacuated to hospital. Space Tech, Local Launches: NASA’s Swift Observatory rescue mission is underway, with the LINK robot launched from the Marshall Islands to extend the telescope’s life—an unusual win for Pacific-based operations tied to space science.