Sanae Takaichi has been elected as Japan’s first female prime minister, marking a historic milestone in the country’s political landscape. The veteran Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) politician, often called Japan’s “Iron Lady” in homage to former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, has vowed to strengthen Japan’s military posture and promote conservative social policies. Takaichi’s leadership is expected to prioritize a more assertive security strategy, particularly in response to growing tensions with China, while reinforcing Japan’s alliance with the United States.