Overview

• In New York, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba condemned Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza and warned Japan could pursue steps such as recognizing a Palestinian state if the two‑state path is shut.
• He coupled the message with a push for United Nations reform, calling for an expansion of both permanent and nonpermanent Security Council seats.
• Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party moved into full public debate, with five contenders outlining plans on inflation relief, social security and the scope of potential coalition partners.
• In Seoul, a special prosecutor arrested Unification Church leader Han Hak‑ja on suspicion of providing money and gifts to figures tied to the previous administration, with a court citing risk of evidence destruction as it approved the warrant.
• The Japan Professional Baseball Players Association opened applications for a program that will provide 30,000 yen annually for three years plus equipment to 24 incoming fourth‑graders from single‑parent families or care facilities.