Summary
Japan's Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, resigned after less than a year in office due to two major election losses. His resignation adds to political uncertainty in Japan, particularly amid economic challenges and regional tensions. Ishiba had hoped to complete negotiations with the U.S. about trade tariffs before stepping down.
Key Facts
- Shigeru Ishiba resigned as Japan's Prime Minister after losing two major elections.
- His party, the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), lost its majority in both the lower and upper houses of parliament.
- Ishiba had been in office for less than a year.
- He aimed to settle trade negotiations with the U.S. before resigning, regarding tariffs on Japanese exports.
- Japan is facing economic difficulties, including rising inflation and a cost-of-living crisis.
- Ishiba faced criticism for appointing only two women to his cabinet and for gifting expensive items to party members.
- Regional tensions are increasing, particularly with China, adding to Japan's political uncertainties.
