Japanese Prime Minister **Shigeru Ishiba** has firmly denied media reports suggesting he intends to resign following his ruling coalition’s defeat in the recent **Upper House elections**. Speaking to reporters after a high-level meeting at the **Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)** headquarters in Tokyo, Ishiba reaffirmed his **commitment to stay in office** and steer the party through what he called a **“serious period of political challenge.”**
On Wednesday July 23, 2025, Ishiba met with three former prime ministers — **Taro Aso, Yoshihide Suga**, and **Fumio Kishida** — along with LDP Secretary-General **Hiroshi Moriyama**. The closed-door meeting lasted approximately **80 minutes** and was held amid growing public and media speculation over Ishiba’s leadership following the election setback.
“We all share a strong sense of urgency,” Ishiba told the press after the meeting. “We agreed that the **party must remain united** and avoid any internal division.”
Ishiba directly dismissed reports claiming he had confided to colleagues about stepping down.
“There was no discussion whatsoever about me resigning, and I have **never made such a statement**,” he said. “The media reports are completely **baseless**.”
His firm denial comes as public and political pressure mounts on the ruling party after losing several key seats in the July 20 election — a result seen as a referendum on his leadership and domestic policies.
Prime Minister Ishiba also addressed Japan’s recent **tariff agreement with the United States**, noting that a deal had been finalized. However, he cautioned that Japan exports **more than 4,000 types of goods** to the U.S., and the implications for Japanese industries are **serious**.
“This agreement will affect a wide range of businesses. It’s critical that the deal is **implemented carefully** to protect Japan’s economic interests,” Ishiba said.
He added that he expects a full briefing from **Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa**, who is scheduled to return from Washington, D.C., on Thursday.
Despite political turbulence, Ishiba pledged to prioritize the welfare of Japanese citizens.
“My mission is to **safeguard the livelihoods** of the people,” he said. “I will do everything in my power to lead responsibly and restore public trust.”
The ruling coalition’s **loss in the Upper House elections** has sparked debate over Ishiba’s leadership within the LDP. While the party retains control of the Lower House, the recent defeat has weakened its position and emboldened the opposition.
Analysts suggest that public dissatisfaction with inflation, rising energy prices, and foreign policy uncertainty played a role in the election outcome.
Prime Minister Ishiba now faces the dual challenge of **rebuilding party unity** while managing sensitive **economic and foreign policy** matters. His next steps — including how he handles the U.S. trade deal and internal party dissent will likely determine his political survival.
As of now, Ishiba remains **firmly in charge**, dismissing resignation rumors and calling for a renewed focus on national stability and growth.
