Japan PM Ishiba Resigns Following Electoral Loss, Party Pressure

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced his intention to resign amid mounting pressure within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) following significant electoral losses that left the coalition without a majority in both houses of Parliament. His decision aims to preserve party unity and prevent further internal division during a period of political instability marked by dissatisfaction over rising living costs and economic challenges. Ishiba's resignation comes just days after Japan finalized a major $550 billion trade agreement with the United States, which includes significant Japanese investment in American sectors and a reduction in U.S. tariffs on Japanese automobiles. Despite initially vowing to remain in office to avoid a political deadlock, Ishiba ultimately chose to step down ahead of an early LDP leadership election that could serve as a no-confidence vote. The LDP has also been facing challenges from the far-right Sanseito party, which has gained traction with its nationalist, anti-immigration rhetoric. Ishiba's departure concludes a brief tenure that was marked by internal party discord, a slush fund scandal, and declining public approval, setting the stage for a critical leadership transition in Japan.