Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba Resigns Amid Political Turmoil

TOKYO — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced his resignation on Sunday to prevent a split within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). His departure throws Japan into renewed political uncertainty as the nation grapples with a struggling economy, rising living costs, and growing regional tensions.

Ishiba's resignation comes after his LDP-led coalition lost its majority in both houses of parliament since he took office last year. The party suffered an historic defeat in the July elections for Japan's upper house, reflecting widespread public anger over rising living costs and his government's policies.

The Prime Minister had faced increasing pressure to step down, particularly from right-wing factions within his own party. The calls for his resignation intensified last week when the LDP adopted a review of its July electoral defeat, which demanded a "complete overhaul" of the party's leadership and policies.

A vote on holding an early leadership election, which was scheduled for Monday, was widely seen as a vote of no confidence against Ishiba. By resigning, he has preempted this move.

Last week, Ishiba's government finalized a trade agreement with the U.S., securing lower tariffs for Japan's auto sector in exchange for a pledge of $550 billion in investments.