Earth Science: A study using ESA Swarm and CryoSat data finds the Pacific’s outer-core flow flipped from westward to eastward in 2010, and the eastward push has been weakening since 2020—scientists say the cause is still a mystery and monitoring must continue. Disaster Response: Typhoon Chan-hom hit Japan’s Kanto region, then weakened into a tropical depression, but officials warn unstable conditions and more rain risks; separate reports also describe flooding and landslide danger as storms sweep parts of China, including Henan’s red-alert downpours. China–Taiwan Tensions: Taiwan lawmakers and “mainland spouses” face renewed scrutiny over loyalty as China–Taiwan tensions rise, while China also plans a naval drill with Indonesia east of Taiwan and rejects US criticism over missile launch notification practices. Philippines Enforcement: The Philippines canceled work permits for six Chinese nationals tied to a Chinese-owned steel plant in Pampanga after alleged illegal foreign labor and safety violations. Malaysia Crackdown: Malaysia’s anti-corruption agency says it seized frozen chicken containers allegedly smuggled from China into Sabah via bribery and false declarations, arresting three suspects. India–Aviation: India’s Air India Phuket–Delhi incident probe deepens after reports the pilot tested positive for marijuana in a confirmatory drug test following a sudden 300-ft altitude drop. Business & Tech: OnePlus hinted at expanding its tablet lineup in India later in 2026; JD.com set up a South Korea entity to directly buy K-goods for China sales; and Vodafone Idea reiterated growth and capex plans. Culture & Sports: Filipino P-pop group BINI heads to Japan for Summer Sonic 2026, while Japan’s cosmetic tattoo artists face a legal gray zone as authorities push for stricter rules.