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Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has denied reports alleging that members of her campaign team created and posted defamatory videos targeting other candidates during the recent Liberal Democratic Party presidential election and House of Representatives election.
Global attention is focused on Japan's strategic shift under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, driven by domestic dynamics including a strengthened US-Japan alliance, tensions with China, and changes to constitutional interpretation and weapons exports.
Japan and Australia have agreed to deepen their cooperation on energy, defense, and critical minerals through new agreements. This collaboration aims to ensure stable resource supplies and strengthen regional security amidst global geopolitical challenges.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited Vietnam, where she pledged to strengthen cooperation on energy, space, and infrastructure, and launched chip research initiatives. During her visit, Takaichi also vowed more effort to ensure a 'free and open Indo-Pacific.'
A ceremony was held to commemorate 100 years since the beginning of the Showa era, where Prime Minister Takaichi delivered a speech, expressing determination to create hope for Japan by learning from ancestors who overcame wars and disasters.
Prime Minister Takaichi of Japan has expressed opposition to urging Japanese citizens to conserve energy, despite the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.
Singapore's Prime Minister Wong and Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi exchanged congratulatory letters to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations between their two nations.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi reportedly told a fellow politician that she needed 'more sleep', in a lighthearted exchange.
The Mainichi News features a quiz assessing the current popularity and public approval ratings of Prime Minister Takaichi's government in Japan.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi's approval ratings have remained high, though some wavering has been observed. This slight fluctuation is attributed to the ongoing impact of events related to Iran.
Political parties in Japan have convened discussions regarding the imperial family, marking the first such talks under Prime Minister Takaichi.
Prime Minister Takaichi requested cooperation from the ruling party for deliberations on important bills in the latter half of the Diet session, following the establishment of the current fiscal year's budget.
At the LDP party convention, Prime Minister Takaichi committed to implementing policies that divide national opinion, such as economic reforms and strengthening intelligence, while vowing to lead the party to victory in next spring's unified local elections.
Today's Iran War news: why the much-ballyhooed Iran ceasefire is much less than it seems to be.
Japan has enough oil to last beyond this year, says PM Takaichi Nikkei Asia
French and Japanese-owned ships have reportedly made their first crossings through the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began. This marks a significant development for international shipping in the critical waterway.
Air China has resumed direct flights between Beijing and Pyongyang after a six-year hiatus, marking another step in the isolated nation's gradual reopening and providing a lifeline for its economy as China is its largest trading partner. The resumption also complements renewed train services between the capitals, though new restrictions apply to passengers.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi has asked the International Energy Agency (IEA) chief to consider a further release of oil stockpiles.
Japan's Prime Minister's visit to the US has drawn criticism, with concerns over Taiwan neglect and potential Persian Gulf deployment, further complicated by Japan's denial of a US official's claim that PM Takaichi pledged to send Maritime Self-Defense Force vessels to the region.
Bill Maher defended Trump's Pearl Harbor joke to Japan's PM Takaichi, saying it wasn't appropriate but was funny, while criticizing the president's handling of Iran conflict.
Japan and the United States are set to discuss joint development of rare earths, indicating a strategic collaboration in critical mineral resources.
Oil prices continue to fluctuate, with analysts predicting potential increases to $3.85 per gallon, as the Iran war enters its third week and the Strait of Hormuz shutdown continues to constrict global supplies, impacting US oil prices.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi is emphasizing the security environment ahead of a US visit, a move experts suggest is aimed at securing US support for Tokyo’s military shift.
The Japanese government has informed the ruling party that a Japan-US summit meeting between Prime Minister Takaichi and President Trump is being arranged for March 19. Foreign Minister Motegi and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Akazawa are expected to accompany the Prime Minister.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation in Iran, particularly its impact on LNG procurement and prices, and is committed to ensuring stable supply. She also mentioned that a supplementary budget is not out of the question if the situation prolongs.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has voiced opposition to any changes that would alter the male-only imperial succession system in Japan.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi is facing pressure regarding gifts given to Members of Parliament.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi explained on X (formerly Twitter) that she distributed catalog gifts to all LDP House of Representatives members after the last general election, stating it was a token of appreciation and for political activities.
Postelection approval rating for Japan PM Takaichi's Cabinet climbs to 61%: Mainichi poll 毎日新聞
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi has pledged to increase domestic investment, citing a 'severely lacking' situation.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi has been reappointed to her position following a recent election.
China is reportedly retaliating against Japan with measures like recalling pandas and cancelling tourist flights, following PM Takaichi's comments on Taiwan.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi is scheduled to meet with Bank of Japan Governor Ueda for the first time since her election victory, discussing economic policy.
As a bill to establish a 'National Intelligence Agency' to strengthen government intelligence functions enters deliberation in the House of Councillors, Prime Minister Takaichi indicated plans to consider measures to prevent unnecessary infringement of personal information and privacy after the bill's enactment.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is pushing for 'advanced discussions' on revising the country's pacifist constitution, which limits its military to self-defense, amidst rising regional tensions.
Japan has witnessed its largest protest in support of its pacifist constitution, as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi advocates for discussions to revise the charter.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi departed from Haneda Airport to visit Vietnam and Australia, aiming to confirm cooperation on stable energy supply and strengthening supply chains for critical materials with both nations.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to pay an official visit to Vietnam from May 1 to 3. The visit was announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has stated that she is ruling out an extra budget for the time being. This decision indicates a cautious approach to fiscal policy amidst current economic conditions.
Japanese politician Sanae Takaichi has openly discussed her struggle with sleep deprivation, with one report indicating she told a fellow politician she needs "more sleep." This admission highlights the demanding nature of high-level political roles.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi held a phone conversation with Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, expressing gratitude for continued crude oil supply to Japan and requesting cooperation for expanded energy supply.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has sent a ritual offering to the controversial Yasukuni war shrine for its spring rite, drawing criticism and regret from South Korea and concern from China. The shrine honors Japan's war dead, including convicted war criminals, and is seen by some as a symbol of past militarism.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is reportedly pursuing the first revision of Japan's post-World War II pacifist constitution, a move expected to be welcomed by Washington and condemned by Beijing.
Prime Minister Takaichi is set to announce support for Japan's stable procurement of oil-derived medical supplies at an online summit with Asian countries, alongside a chairman's statement on strengthening regional supply chains.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has urged discussions on constitutional reform, with the looming risk in the Strait of Hormuz cited as a contributing factor to the urgency.
Data indicates that Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi is eschewing traditional press interactions while actively utilizing social media platforms.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi has cited diverse outreach efforts amidst concerns regarding media access.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has drawn attention for using a crude 'old lady' term in a self-deprecating remark.
Amidst the situation in the Middle East, Prime Minister Takaichi met with the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Akazawa and the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare Ueno, reiterating instructions to ensure the stable supply of petroleum products and other goods.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi has stated that any decision to send forces to the Strait of Hormuz will be made "in accordance with law," as a former top national security adviser recommends enacting a special law to facilitate the deployment of warships to secure the strait.
Takaichi has issued an order for a comprehensive review of the entire supply chain for oil products.
During her meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reportedly secured an endorsement for her strategy regarding the Sino-Japanese relationship.
President Donald Trump made a remark invoking Pearl Harbor during a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, drawing a parallel to US strikes on Iran, which caught the PM off guard and led to her reaction going viral.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi announced that Japan and the United States will engage in discussions regarding joint development initiatives for rare earth minerals, signaling a move towards strengthening supply chains.
The EU is actively debating options for the Strait of Hormuz, including expanding its naval mission and exploring a UN-backed 'grain corridor' model proposed by Kaja Kallas, while US President Donald Trump continues to warn NATO allies of a 'very grim future' if they do not contribute ships to secure the waterway, a stance met with varied responses from European nations.
Norway police on Wednesday said they had arrested three brothers suspected of a "terrorist bombing" outside the US Embassy in Oslo that caused minor damage but no injuries, as investigators probed possible motives including links to Iran.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi met with the US Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, to exchange views regarding the upcoming Japan-US summit meeting.
Japan retains 254 days' worth of oil reserves amid Strait of Hormuz closure: PM Takaichi 毎日新聞
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is planning an aid program by March for Japan's 'ice age' generation, referring to individuals who faced significant job-finding difficulties after graduating between 1993 and 2004.
Japan's Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Ozaki stated that Bank of Japan Governor Ueda clarified there were no specific policy requests regarding reports that Prime Minister Takaichi expressed reluctance about further interest rate hikes.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi explained in the House of Representatives that she deleted her website's policy column because she lacked time to update it since taking office.
A Mainichi poll indicates that the post-election approval rating for Japan PM Takaichi's Cabinet has climbed to 61%.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi has issued a warning about China's 'coercion' and pledged a comprehensive overhaul of the nation's security measures.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has expressed her commitment to securing the approval of the new fiscal year budget within the current fiscal year, seeking cooperation from opposition parties.
China is escalating its retaliation against Japan, including recalling pandas and canceling tourist flights, after Prime Minister Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi is advocating for a revision of the country's pacifist constitution amidst rising regional tensions.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz would have an "enormous impact" on the Asia-Pacific region. Her comments highlight concerns over regional economic stability.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi arrived in Australia after her visit to Vietnam and is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Albanese to finalize a joint statement on ensuring the smooth distribution of energy, including LNG.
Prime Minister Takaichi held a phone call with Iranian President Pezeshkian for about 20 minutes on April 30, reiterating calls for the safety of vessels, following a previous call on April 8.
Prime Minister Takaichi is expected to announce an evolved diplomatic policy for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" during her visit to Vietnam later this week.
During Diet deliberations, Prime Minister Takaichi stated that a supplementary budget is not currently necessary, despite calls from the opposition to support businesses affected by the situation in Iran, citing the availability of existing reserve funds.
Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi reportedly told a fellow politician that she needs 'more sleep,' a comment that has drawn attention.
China and South Korea have expressed objections to Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi's ritual offering made to the controversial Yasukuni Shrine.
A Mainichi poll revealed that public support for Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi's Cabinet has dropped to 53%, marking its lowest level since the cabinet's inception.
TIME Magazine has released its annual list of the 100 most influential people, featuring a diverse group of individuals from politics, entertainment, and business. Notable figures like Blackpink's Jennie, President Sheinbaum, and Mette Frederiksen were recognized for their impact.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi held phone talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Sharif on the afternoon of the 13th. Pakistan mediated recent US-Iran talks, and the leaders are believed to have exchanged views on early de-escalation of the situation.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi has indicated a strong interest in pursuing an early amendment to the country's constitution.
Japan intends to release an additional 20 days' worth of oil reserves starting in May, according to Prime Minister Takaichi.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi held a phone conversation with UAE President Mohammed, requesting continued cooperation to ensure a stable supply of crude oil to Japan.
Japan's Sanae Takaichi is reportedly seeking discussions with Iran's leader before any ultimatum is issued, actively pursuing dialogue.
President Trump has reportedly told aides he is willing to end the ongoing war in Iran even without reopening the Strait of Hormuz, as attacks continue across the region.
The Iran war continues to cause a global energy shock, driving fuel prices up and shaking the world economy, with Asia looking to COVID-era playbooks to tackle the crisis from the Strait of Hormuz blockage. Daily life in Asia is disrupted by the fuel crisis, and poor countries face catastrophe as the global economy pays a high price for the conflict.
Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has reiterated her stance, ruling out the possibility of a summit between Pyongyang and Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi.
A White House photo showing Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi appearing to dance at an official function sparked widespread mockery on Chinese social media. Commenters framed her as Washington's biggest cheerleader.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi declared during her White House meeting with President Trump that only he can achieve global peace, emphasizing calls from Japanese officials for his leadership.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi stated in the House of Councillors Budget Committee that efforts would be made to secure alternative procurement sources for crude oil and other resources, in preparation for a prolonged situation concerning Iran.
Japan not planning Hormuz escort mission, PM Takaichi says The Star
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that no decision has been made regarding the dispatch of Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz, despite G7 chair France considering escorting vessels amid ongoing blockades.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said she can’t give a legal assessment of the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran “at this stage,” as questions about their lawfulness grow.
Regarding the situation in Iran, Prime Minister Takaichi stated her intention to make every necessary diplomatic effort in cooperation with the international community to achieve an early de-escalation of the situation, while also ensuring the full protection of Japanese nationals in the region and neighboring countries.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi reiterated her intention to discuss the design of a 'benefit-linked tax credit' system and a two-year zero consumption tax on food items in a 'National Council' with like-minded parties before parliamentary deliberation.
Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi defended the distribution of catalog gifts to Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) members after the recent general election, stating in the House of Councillors that there are no legal issues.
The Japanese Yen depreciated against the dollar following reports that Prime Minister Takaichi expressed reservations about further interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, in her first parliamentary speech after a landslide victory, emphasized addressing Chinese 'coercion' and strengthening ties with the US.
Employers Holdings reported a Non-GAAP EPS of $0.66, surpassing estimates by $0.16, but its revenue of $170.5 million missed expectations by $45.99 million.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is showing a softer approach on the Liancourt Rocks dispute with South Korea and is also focusing on universities as tools of national strategy.
Japan's economy grew by 0.2% annually in the last quarter of 2025, according to preliminary data, narrowly avoiding a technical recession after a previous contraction.