Marine Protection Push: French Polynesia says it will fully protect 200,000 square miles of ocean—about twice Arizona—adding artisanal fishing zones and bringing protected waters to roughly 540,500 square miles. Whale Rights Draft Laws: The Moananui Sanctuary Trust released model Pacific legislation for public consultation, aiming to strengthen whale protection through legal rights and ocean guardianship. U.S. Coast Guard Crackdown: Operation Blue Pacific targets drug and people smuggling and illegal fishing across Oceania, with patrols including French Polynesia, while stressing cooperation with China in search and rescue. Pacific Peace Appeal: Pacific Islands Forum leaders issued a global call for peace, urging dialogue and respect for the UN Charter amid rising tensions. Travel Links for Tahiti: Air Tahiti Nui and Air Tahiti activated a codeshare, letting travelers book one ticket for international flights plus inter-island hops to places like Bora Bora. Tourism Sustainability: Hilton Hotel Tahiti received Green Globe certification, highlighting its partnership with OceanIA and a solar-powered marine observation platform. Sport Spotlight: Tahiti-based sailing saw Samoan Olympian Vaimo’oi’a Ripley win top female honours at the Oceania Championships. Cruise & Safety Costs: The Trump administration reportedly chartered a $750,000 yacht to evacuate one American from Pitcairn after a hantavirus cruise outbreak, straining the State Department’s emergency budget.