Pacific Health Priorities at PIF: Smaller Island States leaders meeting in Palau backed a push for stronger health workforce support, plus better transport, fisheries development, and climate finance access—with Kiribati’s President Taneti Maamau handing the SIS chair to Palau’s Surangel Whipps Jr. Climate-to-Health Risk: Pacific islands are bracing for El Niño, with warnings that unsafe drinking water and contaminated wells can spread disease, while drought threatens food security—a major concern for places like Kiribati where water safety is already fragile. Digital Health Backbone: A landmark East Micronesia Cable is set to improve reliable internet for Tarawa and other Micronesian communities, supporting services that depend on connectivity. Regional Disruption: The Pacific Islands Forum is starting amid leader absences and geopolitical tension, which could affect follow-through on health and wellness commitments.