Prime Minister Ishiba decided to postpone the meeting with President Trump due to a tight schedule, including a visit to Southeast Asia in early January and the convening of the regular Diet session on the 24th. He also emphasized that it would be more strategic to meet after Trump's inauguration with sufficient preparation.
The South Korean government has initiated an emergency investigation into all Boeing 737 aircraft owned by domestic airlines, focusing on maintenance conditions. The investigation covers 101 aircraft from six airlines, including Jeju Air, and will be completed by January 3. Additionally, three officials have been dispatched to Jeju Air to strengthen safety supervision.
The women's doubles final at the All Japan Badminton Championships was won by the pair of Chiharu Shida and Nami Matsuyama, who secured their first championship with a straight-set victory (21-5, 21-19) against their opponents.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has warned of unstable atmospheric conditions from Hokuriku to Tohoku due to a low-pressure system and warm, moist air. Heavy snowfall is expected in Hokkaido, Tohoku, and the Japan Sea side of eastern Japan from New Year's Eve to New Year's Day. Temperatures in northern Japan are expected to remain at or below average until around January 6.
WHO's Director-General Tedros called for an immediate halt to attacks on hospitals in Gaza, emphasizing the need to ensure people's medical needs and rights are protected. He highlighted that repeated attacks have reduced the number of functioning medical facilities in the region.