Japan PM Ishiba plans resignation amid LDP leadership crisis

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has decided to resign to prevent a split within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), following the loss of the party's majority in the upper house election in July. The LDP-led coalition has also lost majorities in both houses of parliament since coming to power last year, amid public dissatisfaction with rising living costs. Ishiba's resignation comes as LDP lawmakers prepare to vote on whether to hold an extraordinary leadership election. Despite these political challenges, Ishiba's government recently finalized a trade deal with the United States. The move aims to stabilize the party and avoid further internal conflict, signaling a leadership change ahead for Japan. Official confirmation from the Prime Minister's Office is still pending.