The upcoming general election dominated the news, with a significant nine-party leaders' debate taking place. The debate highlighted divisions on political reform and economic policies. Polls showed the ruling LDP as the most popular party, despite ongoing concerns about political funding scandals. The Constitutional Democratic Party faced challenges in candidate coordination with other opposition parties. Former LDP members, now running as independents due to funding disclosures, continued their apology tours. The Osaka Expo preparations, six months before opening, faced skepticism and low ticket sales. In international news, tensions escalated as North Korea threatened retaliation for alleged drone incursions, while Israel's actions in Gaza and Lebanon drew international criticism. The Japan Confederation of A- and H-Bomb Sufferers Organizations, recent Nobel Peace Prize recipients, continued to advocate for nuclear disarmament.
