Japan’s governing Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has chosen former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba as its leader, positioning him to become prime minister. Ishiba, a defense policy expert, won against Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi. The LDP, facing corruption scandals, may have favored Ishiba’s centrist views to counter liberal opposition. Ishiba pledged to restore public trust, reinforce security, and continue economic policies to combat deflation. He aims to address Japan’s declining birthrate and disaster resilience. Ishiba also proposed an Asian NATO-like alliance and plans to call a general election soon.