Strait of Hormuz Diplomacy: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi urged Iran to ensure free, safe passage for Japanese ships in phone talks with President Masoud Pezeshkian, hoping for “maximum flexibility” to reach an agreement amid Middle East uncertainty. Okinawa Heritage: Japan will hold a Nov. 22 ceremony to mark the restoration completion of Shuri Castle’s main hall, destroyed in a 2019 fire. Security Tensions: China warned Japan over sending Self-Defense Forces officers to a NATO-linked Ukraine mission, calling it “neo-militarism.” Japan-Philippines Maritime Row: Taiwan’s foreign ministry urged Japan and the Philippines not to infringe on Taiwan’s rights as EEZ delimitation talks draw fresh concern and Chinese patrols. Storm Disruptions: Typhoon Jangmi battered Okinawa and is moving toward Kyushu, with heavy rain and flight and rail disruptions reported. Wildlife Safety: Bear attacks in Fukushima City injured four people, while an Akita woman was found dead in a suspected bear incident. Food Supply Pressure: Japan’s banana supply faces risk as ethylene shortages linked to Middle East fuel disruptions threaten ripening, and one sweets shop in Fukui warns of plastic wrapping shortages. Business & Markets: The Nikkei pulled back from a record peak as investors weighed Middle East peace talks; SoftBank’s AI-driven surge continues to reshape Japan’s corporate rankings. Japan Travel & Culture: A Shuri restoration milestone and new Japan-bound routes (Taiwan’s Tigerair) underline continued tourism momentum.