El Niño and health risk: Pacific communities already hit by fuel shortages are being warned to prepare for a strong El Niño, with 100% odds it continues through the rest of 2026—bringing heavier rain in some areas and drought in others, raising pressure on safe drinking water, food supplies and children’s health. Kiribati health ties: India’s High Commissioner visited Kiribati’s dialysis centre and met health officials, pointing to expanded healthcare cooperation under the 2023 FIPIC push for dialysis units. Food security through tuna: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency and the Pacific Community launched the “Tuna Bites” campaign for World Tuna Day and Pacific Tuna Month, aiming to boost awareness of tuna as a key protein source in countries including Kiribati. Local livelihoods and nutrition-linked industry: India launched a Virgin Coconut Oil project in South Tarawa, supporting processing plants and training to raise-value coconut products for farmers and rural communities. Regional health workforce focus: Smaller Island States leaders agreed to prioritise health workforce support alongside transport and fisheries, as the Pacific Islands Forum meets in Palau. Diplomacy with health in the background: The forum is also dealing with political tension over Taiwan and China, while leaders try to keep climate and public priorities on track.