Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is poised to seize a significant majority in the lower house of parliament following a snap election, according to exit polls and media estimates released on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The ultra-conservative leader's coalition is predicted to win between 302 and 366 of the 465 seats in the chamber, well above the 233 needed for a majority, as reported by Sky News, with Euronews adding that Takaichi is estimated to have secured a two-thirds majority, the best result for the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) since 2017.
The election results could potentially cause friction with China and raise concerns in financial markets, according to Euronews. Takaichi, Japan's first female premier, capitalized on her honeymoon period to secure a strong victory. The election outcome marks a significant shift in power, potentially allowing Takaichi to implement her policy agenda with greater ease.
In other international news, US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are scheduled to meet in Washington on Wednesday to discuss negotiations with Iran, as reported by Sky News. This meeting follows indirect nuclear talks held between Iranian and US officials in Muscat, Oman, on Friday. The talks occurred amidst a continued American naval build-up near Iran, which Trump has described as an "armada."
Meanwhile, the Qatar TotalEnergies Open, the first WTA 1000 tournament of the season, has commenced in Doha, as reported by Euronews. The tournament features top women's tennis players competing for 1,000 ranking points and nearly $3.5 million in prize money.
Discussion
AI Experts & Community
Be the first to comment