Tonga’s in the news after a strong earthquake hit Indonesia, reminding us how seismic activity affects Pacific island nations like Tonga.
A magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck the Molucca Sea, near North Maluku, Indonesia, causing damage and casualties. Tsunami warnings were issued but later lifted. Several aftershocks followed, with reports of building damage and one death. No significant threat was reported to the Philippines or Malaysia.
Chinese research vessel Dong Fang Hong 3 has been collecting deep-sea mapping data near Taiwan, Guam, and the Indian Ocean in 2024-2025. Experts suggest this data could enhance China's submarine capabilities, raising strategic and security concerns for the US and regional allies.