TOKYO — Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced on Sunday that he intends to resign. This decision follows increasing pressure from his party to take responsibility for a significant loss in the July parliamentary elections. Ishiba, who has been in office since October, faced demands from rightwing factions within his own Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) for over a month.

The timing of Ishiba’s announcement is critical, as it comes just one day before the LDP is set to decide on holding an early leadership election. Such a move would act as a virtual no-confidence vote against him if approved. In the July elections, Ishiba’s ruling coalition failed to secure a majority in the 248-seat upper house, which has raised concerns about the stability of his government.

Ishiba’s resignation aims to prevent further divisions within the LDP. Reports indicate that he had previously denied intentions to step down, emphasizing his focus on ensuring the proper implementation of a tariff deal with the United States. However, the pressure from party members following the election defeat appears to have influenced his decision.

As the situation develops, the LDP will need to address the leadership vacuum and the implications of Ishiba’s resignation on Japan’s political landscape.