Bank of Japan Rate Hike: The BOJ lifted its policy rate to 1%—a 31-year high—warning that oil-price pass-through could push inflation above target, and markets cheered as the Nikkei briefly topped 70,000. World Cup Spotlight: Japan rescued a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in a late thriller, with Daichi Kamada scoring at the death; and fans kept the tradition going by cleaning Dallas stadium after the match. Hormuz & Defense Planning: With a U.S.-Iran preliminary deal in the air, Japan is weighing SDF options around the Strait of Hormuz, including minesweeping and other defensive maritime missions. Local Governance Tragedy: The mayor of Shimotsuma, Ibaraki, was found dead in a drainage canal; police are probing possible suicide. LGBT Policy Move: Japan’s Cabinet approved a basic plan to boost awareness of sexual minorities, including school and workplace support and steps to tackle online hate. Health Watch: Tick-borne SFTS cases are rising faster than last year’s pace, prompting renewed prevention advice. Tech & Business: Wowow and NTT Docomo are expanding the Lemino streaming platform, while Japan-UK ties also keep growing through new tech and investment cooperation.