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Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi Secures Landslide Victory in Lower House Election
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s ruling coalition, including the Liberal Democratic Party, won a sweeping majority in the House of Representatives election, with exit polls and reports indicating over two-thirds of seats. This gives her a strong mandate to advance her hard-line agenda on immigration, economic reforms, and foreign policy, particularly toward China, marking a significant shift toward conservative policies in Japan.
Source: ReutersUS President Trump and Israeli PM Netanyahu to Meet on Iran Negotiations
US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are scheduled to meet in Washington on February 11 to discuss ongoing US-Iran talks, amid concerns over Iran’s ballistic missile program, which Israel views as an existential threat. Israel has signaled readiness for unilateral action if needed, while Iran insists missiles and regional issues are non-negotiable, complicating prospects for a breakthrough.
Source: Institute for the Study of WarThailand Holds General Election with Three-Way Race and Instability Risks
Thailand conducted its parliamentary election, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s Bhumjaithai party leading polls but likely needing coalition partners to form a government. The vote raises concerns about potential political instability in the Southeast Asian nation, amid youth influence and ongoing debates over democracy and military roles.
Source: ReutersIran Reaffirms Right to Uranium Enrichment in US Nuclear Talks
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that recognition of Iran’s right to enrich uranium is essential for any nuclear deal with the US, while declaring missiles and regional influence off-limits in negotiations. This stance follows recent talks in Oman and reduces chances of quick progress unless the US position shifts significantly.
Source: ReutersUkraine’s Zelenskyy Says US Pushes for War End by June Amid Russian Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that the US has proposed ending the Russia-Ukraine war by June, as Russia intensifies strikes on Ukraine’s energy grid and infrastructure. Zelenskyy stressed making the war “untenable” for Russia through high costs and new sanctions on suppliers of drone and missile components.
Source: ABC NewsTrump Administration Tightens Pressure on Cuba, Betting on Communist Government’s Collapse
The Trump administration has escalated measures against Cuba by blocking foreign oil and impacting tourism, declaring the communist government is in its final year amid economic freefall, failing infrastructure, and mass emigration. Cuban exile leaders support the push for freedom by the end of 2026.
Source: The New York TimesNorth Korea to Hold 9th Workers’ Party Congress in Late February
North Korea announced it will convene its 9th Congress of the Workers’ Party of Korea in late February in Pyongyang. The event is expected to address key policy directions, though specific agendas remain undisclosed by state media.
Source: ReutersProtests and Clashes Over Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics Intensify
Demonstrators clashed with police near Milan Olympic venues in protests against the “unsustainable” costs and impacts of the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the actions, labeling protesters as “enemies of Italy” amid reports of sabotage.
Source: AP NewsAustralia’s Opposition Coalition Reunites After Split Over Hate Speech Laws
Australia’s conservative opposition, the Liberal and National parties, reunited after a rift over support for government hate speech legislation following the Bondi massacre. The reconciliation strengthens their position ahead of future elections.
Source: ReutersHaiti in Political Limbo as Transitional Government Mandate Expires
Haiti’s transitional governing council ended its mandate without a succession plan, plunging the nation into further uncertainty amid ongoing gang violence and delayed elections. This exacerbates the Caribbean country’s crisis with no clear path to stability.
Source: Reuters
