Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has indicated his intention to step down by August following mounting pressure from within his own Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). The decision comes in the wake of the party’s significant loss in the recent House of Councillors election, as reported by the Mainichi newspaper on Wednesday.
Ishiba is expected to meet with senior LDP officials later on Wednesday to discuss his political future and the timing of his departure. Initially, he had planned to remain in office despite the electoral setback. However, growing calls for his resignation have intensified, leaving the exact date of his exit uncertain.
The political landscape in Japan is further complicated by recent developments in international trade. U.S. President Donald Trump announced on social media that the United States and Japan have reached a trade deal that includes a 15% tariff to be imposed on U.S. imports from Japan. When questioned about how this agreement might affect his political future, Ishiba stated, “I cannot comment until I thoroughly examine the contents of the agreement.”
The unfolding events have sparked discussions about the future leadership of the LDP and Japan’s direction amid both domestic and international challenges.
