LDP Loses Both Houses; Ishiba Stays On

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has pledged to remain in office after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Komeito coalition lost their majority in the upper house, leaving the LDP without control of either chamber of parliament for the first time in its 70-year history. The defeat reflects public frustration with rising prices and economic stagnation and comes after the coalition had already lost its lower house majority. Ishiba faces internal calls to resign but has ruled out stepping down or expanding the coalition, emphasizing his responsibility to manage critical tariff negotiations with the United States ahead of an August 1 deadline. The election saw significant gains by populist and anti-globalist parties, underscoring voter dissatisfaction. Without a majority in either house, Ishiba's government will struggle to pass legislation and must seek opposition support. The outcome signals heightened political uncertainty and challenges for Japan's leadership.