The political scandal involving Prime Minister Ishiba's distribution of ¥100,000 gift certificates to 15 Diet members dominated headlines, evolving from morning revelations to afternoon defense as Ishiba claimed no violation of political funding regulations despite all recipients returning the vouchers. This controversy emerges amid his already tenuous position, with reports of "Ishiba ouster" sentiment growing within the LDP.
Trade tensions continued escalating, with concerns about potential US automotive tariffs following Trump's steel and aluminum tariffs implemented yesterday. The Canadian convenience store giant persisted in its Seven & i Holdings takeover bid, with its CEO expressing confidence despite regulatory hurdles.
In crime news, authorities recovered bodies from MSDF helicopters that collided in 2024, while details emerged about a Tokyo livestreamer stabbed over 30 times. Police also reported over 3 million Japanese engaged in illegal online gambling.