Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi Dissolves Parliament, Calls Snap Election for February 8

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi dissolved the lower house of Parliament on Friday, initiating a snap election scheduled for February 8. This decision comes just three months into her tenure as Japan's first female leader, during which she has maintained approval ratings around 70%.

The dissolution of the 465-member lower house triggers a 12-day campaign period starting Tuesday. Takaichi aims to leverage her popularity to bolster the governing coalition's slim majority, which has been weakened by recent losses and scandals. The coalition currently lacks a majority in the upper house, relying on opposition votes to advance its agenda.

Opposition leaders have criticized the timing, arguing that it delays the passage of a crucial budget designed to stimulate the struggling economy and address rising prices. Takaichi, a hardline conservative, has emphasized the need for voters to assess her policies on fiscal spending, military expansion, and stricter immigration controls to make Japan "strong and prosperous."

Tensions with China have escalated following Takaichi's remarks suggesting potential Japanese involvement if China takes military action against Taiwan. In response, China has imposed economic and diplomatic measures against Japan. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Japan to increase defense spending amid regional security concerns.