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Japan’s Leader Makes a Bold Election Bet. Here’s What to Know.

By: Javier C. Hernández — 8 February 2026 at 01:23

Sanae Takaichi, who has proved popular as the first woman to lead Japan as prime minister, hopes to bolster her power in a snap election. But she faces hurdles.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi standing atop a vehicle during an election campaign in Tokyo on Saturday.

China’s Threat to Block Rare Earths Has Put Japan on High Alert

By: River Akira Davis — 7 January 2026 at 10:08

Tokyo is concerned at signs that Beijing may be laying the groundwork to restrict access to the metals vital to manufacturing.

A truck hauling material out of a mining valley for heavy rare earth metals on the outskirts of Longnan, China, in April.