Is Japanese PM Ishiba Planning to Resign Amid Party Pressure?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shigeru Ishiba signals intention to resign by August.
- Pressure from within the Liberal Democratic Party mounts.
- Electoral defeat prompts internal review of party strategy.
- US trade deal introduces a 15% tariff on imports from Japan.
- Ishiba remains committed to his role despite challenges.
Tokyo, July 23 (NationPress) The Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba, has informed his close advisors of his plans to resign by August. This decision follows an internal assessment by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) regarding its significant defeat in the recent House of Councillors election, as reported by the Mainichi newspaper on Wednesday.
Later today, Ishiba is set to meet with influential LDP leaders to deliberate on his political future, according to Xinhua news agency.
Initially, Ishiba had declared his intention to continue in his role despite the electoral loss; however, the pressure for his resignation from party members has grown stronger, leaving the precise timing of his exit unclear.
In a separate context, US President Donald Trump announced on social media that a trade agreement between the US and Japan has been reached, which includes a 15 percent tariff on US imports from Japan.
When questioned about how this trade deal might influence his political trajectory, Ishiba remarked, "I cannot comment until I thoroughly examine the contents of the agreement."
Facing increasing dissent within the Liberal Democratic Party for his commitment to remain in power despite a dismal outcome in the upper house elections, Ishiba stated during a press conference on Monday, "I will stay in office and do everything in my power to navigate these challenges." The Prime Minister is expected to meet with senior party officials later today to discuss the election results.