Maritime Security & Human Cost: The U.S. confirmed it struck the Palau-flagged tanker MT Settebello in the Gulf of Oman, killing three Indian seafarers after the ship allegedly ignored U.S. directions during enforcement of an Iran oil blockade; India’s shipping minister says bodies were recovered and repatriation is underway, while New Delhi lodged a formal protest. Escalation at Sea: CENTCOM also says it disabled another tanker, MT Jalveer, after missiles were fired into its engine room; the incident involved 20 Indian crew and follows repeated attacks on commercial vessels near Oman. Diplomacy & Tourism Ties: Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr reiterated support for Taiwan during Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim’s five-day visit, which includes people-to-people sports exchanges and a focus on sustainable tourism and development projects. Belau Games Community Building: Organizers say the 2026 Belau Games volunteer program is training Palauans for roles in event operations, media, officiating, and logistics—building skills for future sports careers. Sports: Palauan teams won two of three games in the Taiwan-Palau Baseball Goodwill Series, continuing a 14-year partnership. Regional Spotlight: Kiribati was selected to host the 2030 Micronesian Games, with preparations already underway.