Sumo wrestling at the Royal Albert Hall – picture essay

Japan's ruling party has successfully formed a new coalition, which is a significant step towards its leader, Takaichi, potentially becoming the next prime minister. This development is important as it could lead to new policies and governance strategies that may impact the country's future.

Sanae Takaichi is making headlines as she edges closer to becoming Japan's first female prime minister. Reports confirm that her Liberal Democratic Party is set to form a coalition with the rightwing Nippon Ishin party. This development is significant as it not only marks a potential breakthrough for gender representation in Japanese politics but also reflects a shift towards more conservative leadership, reminiscent of figures like Margaret Thatcher. The implications of this coalition could reshape Japan's political landscape and influence its future policies.

Labour MPs are pushing back against plans by the housing secretary and the London mayor to cut affordable housing quotas in the city. They argue that reducing these quotas could undermine efforts to provide necessary housing for those in need, especially as the capital faces a housing crisis. This debate is crucial as it highlights the tension between increasing homebuilding and ensuring that affordable options remain available for residents.

London is facing a significant housing crisis as construction activity declines, raising concerns about the future of affordable housing. Mayor Sadiq Khan is under pressure after a recent report highlighted the severity of the issue, leading to alarm in both City Hall and Whitehall. The situation is critical as the city grapples with the balance between necessary building initiatives and the potential fallout from extreme measures. This matters because the availability of affordable housing is essential for the city's residents and its overall economic health.

Japan is gearing up for a crucial vote to select a new prime minister, with the Liberal Democratic Party's Sanae Takaichi aiming to become the country's first female leader. This election is significant as it reflects the current political uncertainty and the need for coalition-building among opposition parties. Takaichi's success could mark a historic moment for Japan, potentially reshaping its political landscape.

In a bold move for animal rights, protesters gathered outside a London aquarium to demand the release of penguins they claim are trapped in a basement. Musician and eco-campaigner Feargal Sharkey challenged the company's boss to experience life as the penguins do, highlighting the plight of these animals and sparking a conversation about their welfare. This demonstration not only raises awareness about the conditions of captive wildlife but also encourages a broader dialogue on ethical treatment in attractions.

A new trend in London is bringing people together through the unique concept of scream clubs, where participants gather to release pent-up energy and relieve stress in a fun, social environment. This phenomenon, often attracting mostly young individuals, allows them to express their emotions collectively, creating a sense of community and support. As the world grapples with increasing stress levels, these scream sessions offer a refreshing outlet, highlighting the importance of mental well-being and the need for innovative ways to cope with life's pressures.

Letitia Wright, known for her role in Black Panther, is stepping into the director's chair with her debut film inspired by the troubling issue of violence among young Black men. This project is significant as it not only showcases her talent behind the camera but also addresses a pressing social concern, aiming to spark conversations about community and healing. Wright's experiences, including her recent encounter with a far-right march in London, have fueled her passion for storytelling that resonates with real-life challenges faced by marginalized communities.

Former FBI director James Comey is facing a critical deadline to file a motion to dismiss charges against him for allegedly lying to Congress, which he plans to argue is a result of vindictive prosecution. Meanwhile, tensions are escalating as Donald Trump accused Colombia's president, Gustavo Petro, of being an 'illegal drug dealer' and threatened to cut US funding to Colombia, with a Republican senator hinting at impending major tariffs. This situation is significant as it highlights the strained US-Colombia relations and the political maneuvering surrounding Comey's legal challenges.

Robert De Niro has once again voiced his strong opposition to Donald Trump, emphasizing the importance of standing up to bullies. In a recent interview with MSNBC, he expressed support for the 'No Kings' protests, which have mobilized millions against the current administration. This matters because it highlights the ongoing resistance to Trump's policies and the call for collective action among citizens who seek change.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) recently experienced an internet outage that affected several popular platforms, including Fortnite, Roblox, and Snapchat. While this disruption raised concerns among users, AWS claims to be showing signs of recovery. Additionally, UBS has upgraded its outlook on global equities, suggesting that now might be a good time for investors to consider increasing their investments in shares. This situation highlights the interconnectedness of online services and the potential impact of outages on both users and the financial market.

Tensions are escalating in Ivory Coast as President Alassane Ouattara, at 83 years old, pushes for a fourth term despite widespread protests and calls for him to step down. His recent comments while inaugurating a bridge in Abidjan, where he joked about deserving several more terms, highlight the growing divide between the government and opposition. The situation is critical as it raises concerns about democratic processes and stability in the region, making it a pivotal moment for the future of Ivory Coast.

The ongoing violence in Gaza continues to escalate, with Israel's military reporting strikes against militants in areas it controls. This situation is critical as it tests the fragile cease-fire deal, raising concerns about further conflict and instability in the region. The implications of this violence could affect not only local communities but also international relations and peace efforts.

Lufthansa has announced it will cut over 100 weekly domestic flights due to a significant increase in state-imposed costs since 2019. This decision highlights the ongoing challenges faced by airlines in managing operational expenses, which can ultimately affect travelers and the aviation industry as a whole. With rising costs, passengers may experience reduced options and potential disruptions in their travel plans.