at 18:00 (JST), July 31

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240731180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : hamas political leader
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240731_26/

Hamas: Leader Ismail Haniyeh killed in Iran

Hamas says its political leader Ismail Haniyeh has been killed by an Israeli attack in Tehran.

Iranian state TV cites the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as saying he was shot Wednesday morning.

Hamas has been in a fierce battle with the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip.

Haniyeh became prime minister of Palestine's Hamas-led government in 2006. He acted as the top leader of the enclave as the rift between Hamas and Fatah deepened.

Haniyeh had been based in Qatar, but on Tuesday, he was in Tehran to attend the swearing-in ceremony for Iran's new president.

Masoud Pezeshkian is promising to improve ties internationally and ease restrictions on social freedoms at home. His predecessor had overseen a crackdown on anti-government protesters. Pezeshkian says his election will open up a "new opportunity" for Iran and the world.

Pezeshkian said, "We call on Western countries to understand the realities and establish relationships based on mutual respect and an equal footing."

Key words : tehran Tsuchiya Yuji
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240731154835422/

What the killing of Hamas leader Haniyeh means for Iran's future

Ismail Haniyeh, a senior Hamas leader, was killed after attending the inauguration of Iran's new president, Masoud Pezeshkian. Tehran is expected to respond, but what would that mean for its relations with the West? NHK World's Tsuchiya Yuji explains.

Key words : israeli military commander
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240731_06/

Israel claims to have 'eliminated' senior Hezbollah commander

The Israeli military has announced that it "eliminated" a senior Hezbollah commander by conducting a targeted airstrike on the Lebanese capital of Beirut.

The military said in a statement on Tuesday that the commander was responsible for Saturday's attack on the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. The assault left 12 people dead. Israel blamed the Shia Muslim group for the attack and had previously vowed to respond.

The military said that the commander was the right-hand man of Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Arab media outlets cite Hezbollah sources as saying that the commander survived the attack. The sources also reportedly say that some people were killed or wounded in the assault.

Israeli media outlets quoted an Israeli official as saying that the country has completed its response and has no intention of starting a war.

Hezbollah has said that it will fight "without limits," if a war is "imposed" on it.

Key words : rescue operation k2
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240731_05/

Rescue operation ends for 2 Japanese climbers at K2

The rescue operation has ended for two famed Japanese climbers who fell from K2, the world's second-highest mountain, in northern Pakistan.

Hiraide Kazuya and Nakajima Kenro were involved in the accident on Saturday on the mountain, which has a peak of 8,611 meters.

They were part of the Tokyo-based climbing equipment store operator Ishii Sports. The company earlier said an aerial search spotted the pair but the high altitude and the sharp slope hampered the rescue operation.

The firm said on Tuesday that it will end the rescue operation with the consent of their family members. The company added that rescuers cannot reach them by land either because of a risk of secondary accident.

Hiraide and Nakajima are globally known climbers who have scaled unclimbed routes in mountains with the height of over 7,000 meters in northern Pakistan. They won the Piolets d'Or award, which is said to be the Academy Award of mountaineering.

There are several fatal incidents in recent months involving Japanese climbers in the area. Two men went missing at another mountain in June. One of them was confirmed dead. Earlier in July, yet another Japanese climber suffered a fatal fall.

Key words : kidney
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240731_08/

Japanese surgeon says research on xenotransplantation should be sped up in Japan

A Japanese doctor working at the US hospital where surgeons transplanted a pig organ into a human patient earlier this year says research on transplants involving animal organs should be accelerated in his home country.

Kawai Tatsuo was a member of the surgical team at Massachusetts General Hospital that transplanted a genetically-modified pig kidney into a living patient in March.

The organ was genetically altered to prevent rejection. The patient was 62 years old at the time, and he was suffering from a kidney disease. He died two months after the operation. But the hospital says there is no indication that the transplant caused the patient's death.

Kawai spoke at a news conference that was held near Tokyo on Tuesday. He said he had the impression that the pig kidney was very similar to a human one, as the patient was able to release urine right after the transplant.

Kawai also said he believes xenotransplantation has the potential to become a common medical treatment.

The xenotransplantation of pig organs into humans is attracting much attention, as there is a shortage of available organs. An animal organ has never been transplanted into a human being in Japan. But research on xenotransplantation involving animal-to-human transplants is being conducted in the nation.

Kawai said he thinks surgeons in Japan will be able to perform such transplants in the near future, if they work together with the US team, which is considered to be the leader in the field.

Kawai noted that xenotransplantation is an important procedure in Japan, where organ transplants are rare. He also called on Japanese society to support research on xenotransplantation involving animal-to-human transplants.

Key words : online vote
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240731_11/

Virtual vote begins Thursday to officially name Harris as presidential nominee

The US Democratic Party says it will hold an online vote from August 1 through August 5 to nominate Vice President Kamala Harris as its candidate to succeed President Joe Biden.

The Democratic National Committee announced the nomination proceedings on Tuesday.

Biden has expressed his support for Harris.

The DNC says 3,923 delegates from across the United States petitioned to put Harris on the ballot for the Democratic nomination.

It says Harris secured the support of 99 percent of the participating delegates and noted she is the only person who has qualified for the ballot.

Harris has already launched a full-fledged campaign. She held a rally on Tuesday in Georgia -- a key southern swing state -- telling the audience, "The momentum in this race is shifting," and adding, "There are signs Donald Trump is feeling it."

Key words : nagase
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240731_04/

Japanese judoka Nagase Takanori wins 2nd straight gold medal

Japanese judoka Nagase Takanori has won his second straight gold medal in the men's 81-kilogram category at the Paris Olympics. He earned his first at the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Nagase faced three-time world champion Tato Grigalashvili of Georgia in the final on Tuesday.

The 30-year-old defending champion first scored a waza-ari with the "Tani-otoshi" throwing technique and continued attacking his opponent. And less than a minute later, he again executed the same technique to decisively end the bout by ippon.

Nagase won all the five bouts without allowing his opponents to win any waza points.

South Korea's Lee Joonhwan and Tajikistan's Somon Makhmadbekov won the bronze.

With the victory, Nagase became the first man ever to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the 81-kilogram category. He has medaled in three consecutive Olympics, starting with a bronze at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games.

With Nagase's gold on Tuesday, the Japanese men's judo team has won medals for four straight days.

Key words : basketball
#N/A


Key words : weather Jonathan Oh
#N/A

at 18:00 (JST), July 30

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240730180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : meteorological hamamatsu 31
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240730_11/

Highs of 38 degrees Celsius expected in parts of Japan, heatstroke alerts issued

Japan's weather officials are warning of dangerously high temperatures in some parts of the country on Tuesday.

The Japan Meteorological Agency says it expects high temperatures due to a high-pressure system over mainly eastern and western Japan.

Daytime highs are expected to reach a dangerous 38 degrees Celsius in the cities of Hamamatsu and Kochi.

They are forecast to climb to 37 degrees in central Tokyo, Kofu, Okayama and Kagoshima cities. Temperatures will likely rise to 36 degrees in the cities of Sendai, Nagoya and Kyoto and 35 degrees in Kobe and Fukuoka cities.

The agency and Environment Ministry have issued heatstroke alerts for 31 prefectures from the Kanto-Koshin to the Kyushu regions.

People are advised to avoid unnecessary outings, use air conditioners without hesitation and frequently take in fluids and salt. Special attention should be paid to elderly people and infants as they are at higher risk of developing heatstroke.

Key words : 41.1 degrees Tsietsi Monare
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240730155045250/

Analysis: What's behind the extreme heat, heavy rains battering Japan

A record heatwave has been scorching Japan, pushing the mercury close to the domestic all-time high of 41.1 degrees Celsius. As NHK World meteorologist Tsietsi Monare explains, Japan isn't the only one struggling with the weather.

Key words : ukrainian athlete medal
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240730_08/

Ukrainian fencer wins 1st Paris Olympic medal for her country

A Ukrainian fencer has won the country's first medal at the Paris Olympic Games in the women's individual sabre event.

Five-time Olympian Olga Kharlan reached the semifinal by beating Japan's Fukushima Shihomi and other competitors, but she lost to a French fencer in the semifinal.

In Monday's bronze medal bout at the Grand Palais in central Paris, Kharlan faced off against South Korea's Choi Sebin.

Kharlan rallied from a six-point deficit to triumph 15-14, winning a bronze medal for her country.

The 33-year-old has now earned a total of five Olympic medals in both team and individual events.

Kharlan said she had fought for Ukrainian athletes who were killed by Russia and for Ukrainian soldiers who defend the country. She dedicated the victory to her country.

The fencer said she would like to thank everyone who supported her.

Key words : triathlon postpone
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240730_20/

Men's Olympic triathlon postponed due to Seine's poor water quality

The Paris Olympic Games men's triathlon has been postponed a day due to the River Seine's substandard water quality.

The organizing committee and the sport's governing body announced on Tuesday that readings at some points of the swim course exceeded acceptable limits.

They have decided to hold the men's triathlon on Wednesday after the women's triathlon, but said both races are subject to forthcoming tests.

Events featuring athletes swimming in the Seine have been one of the highlights of the Games. However, the water quality deteriorated after rain fell on Friday and Saturday, causing practice sessions to be canceled.

Key words : education minister
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240730_21/

Japan to accept 100 Ukrainian students over 5 years in cooperation plan

Japan's education minister has informed Ukraine of a plan to accept 100 Ukrainian university students as part of bilateral cooperation to support Ukraine's reconstruction efforts.

Moriyama Masahito announced the program during a bilateral meeting held in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv on Monday. He was visiting the country after attending the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics.

The meeting was the first since Japan and Ukraine signed a memorandum of cooperation in education, science and technology in February, agreeing to set up discussions on specific measures for collaboration.

At the beginning of the meeting, Ukraine's Education and Science Minister Oksen Lisovyi said that financial support from the Japanese government is particularly important in the areas of education, science and technology. He said their cooperation is proceeding rapidly.

Japanese officials reportedly informed the Ukrainian side of plans to accept 100 government-sponsored Ukrainian university students over five years.

The officials also said that Japan aims to promote exchanges among researchers and present Japanese picture books translated into Ukrainian.

Moriyama told reporters after the meeting that the Ukrainian side had requested cooperation on issues such as mental health care for people returning from battlefields. He said Japan will consider what can be done based on the discussions held during the meeting.

Sources say the next meeting will be hosted by Japan.

Key words : us media secret service
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240730_09/

Communication failures likely within security teams on day of Trump attack

US media reports suggest that there may have been communication failures between the Secret Service and the local law enforcement leading up to the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump earlier this month.

Trump suffered an injury when a gunman, identified as Thomas Crooks, opened fire at the former president while he was speaking at a Republican presidential election campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13.

ABC News broadcast an interview on Monday with a local SWAT team who were supplementing efforts to ensure Trump's security alongside the Secret Service.

One of the team's officers said his team and the Secret Service agents were supposed to have a face-to-face briefing when the agents arrived at the site, but that never happened.

The New York Times also reported that the gunman aroused police suspicion more than 90 minutes before the shooting. A counter-sniper with local law enforcement took photographs of Crooks and shared them with his colleagues. But it appears that the information was not promptly shared with the Secret Service.

The FBI said on Monday that it has conducted over 450 interviews as part of its investigation into the incident. It added that Trump also agreed to be interviewed.

It has come to light that Crooks joined a training course at a local shooting club last September. Earlier this year, he also reportedly bought chemicals used to make explosives and other items online under an alias.

Key words : world weather Jonathan Oh
#N/A

at 18:00 (JST), July 29

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240729180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : quad nations cyber
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240729_01/

Quad foreign ministers to discuss joint support for Indo-Pacific nations

The foreign ministers of the Quad nations of Japan, the United States, Australia and India will meet in Tokyo on Monday to discuss ways to jointly address challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

The ministers are expected to exchange views on the situation in the East and South China seas, where China is increasing its presence, as well as North Korea, among other issues.

They intend to reaffirm their cooperation in efforts to realize a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law.

The ministers are expected to agree to help the Philippines improve its cyber security capabilities. The Quad nations also plan to provide support for Palau in its creation of a communications network called Open RAN.

Other issues on the agenda will include their joint support for other nations in the improvement of law-enforcement capabilities at sea, as well as disaster relief activities.

The ministers are expected to release a joint statement summarizing their talks.

Key words : austin kihara shin
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_11/

Japan, US, South Korea defense chiefs agree to step up cooperation

Defense leaders of Japan, the United States and South Korea have agreed to step up cooperation. They've signed a memorandum to institutionalize trilateral security efforts such as information sharing and joint exercises.

Japanese Defense Minister Kihara Minoru, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik held talks in Japan on Sunday. The country hosted the three-way meeting for the first time.

Kihara said the trilateral cooperation is extremely important for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, in the Indo-Pacific and beyond amid the worsening security environment.

He said the talks would cover issues such as relations between North Korea and Russia, the East and South China seas, and ways to boost trilateral defense cooperation.

The defense leaders condemned North Korea's launches of ballistic missiles and expressed concern over its increasing military cooperation with Russia.

They confirmed that they would hold the trilateral ministerial meeting on a regular basis to further develop cooperation and effectively cope with provocations and threats.

After the talks, they signed a memorandum to institutionalize cooperation. It calls for annual senior-level policy consultations, the sharing of real-time information about North Korea's missile launches, and organized and effective implementation of joint drills.

Kihara told reporters that the memorandum is designed to document what the three countries have implemented and will continue to do in the future. He said the document has bolstered trilateral cooperation, enabling them to stand firm against various international changes. He said Japan will continue taking measures to strengthen cooperation based on the memorandum and contribute to regional peace and stability.

Key words : two-plus-two command
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_15/

Japan-US foreign, defense ministers agree on overhaul of US forces in Japan

Foreign and defense ministers of Japan and the United States have agreed to work on improving the command and control of Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the US military for better coordination.

Japan's Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and Defense Minister Kihara Minoru held talks with their US counterparts Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin for about an hour in Tokyo on Sunday.

At the opening of the "two-plus-two" talks, Kamikawa said the two countries need to continuously bolster their alliance and enhance deterrence to defend the international order.

Kihara underscored the need for Japan to strengthen coordination with the US and other partners with the aim of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The four officials exchanged views on the regional situation and concurred that China's diplomatic policy is aimed at altering the international order to its own benefit at the expense of others. They agreed that Beijing's stance poses a serious concern for the Japan-US alliance and the entire international community and represents the largest strategic challenge for the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

The ministers expressed staunch opposition to China's increasing efforts to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion in the East China Sea, including moves around Japan's Senkaku Islands. They also voiced strong concerns about Beijing's escalating actions in waters near Japan's Nansei Islands.

The US side reaffirmed that Article Five of the Japan-US Security Treaty applies to the Senkaku Islands. The article obliges the US to defend territories under Japan's administrative control.

Japan controls the Senkaku Islands. The Japanese government maintains the islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory. China and Taiwan claim them.

The foreign and defense chiefs strongly condemned North Korea for its continuous launches of ballistic missiles and its increasing cooperation with Russia, which is procuring ballistic missiles and other supplies from the North.

The officials agreed that the US will reconstitute its forces in Japan as a joint force headquarters reporting to the Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command for better coordination between Japan's Self-Defense Forces and the US military. The new entity is expected to serve as a key counterpart to Japan's envisioned joint operations headquarters.

The ministers decided that a working group involving both countries will be set up to consider the details of the revisions.

The Japanese and US sides also agreed that they will pursue opportunities for the joint production of defense equipment with an eye on expanding production capabilities of land-based PAC-3 interceptor missiles and other devices.

The ministers stressed the importance of improving information-sharing about accidents and incidents involving US personnel, in view of the cases of sexual violence by US service members stationed in Japan's Okinawa Prefecture. They expressed appreciation for the preventive measures to be implemented by the US forces in Japan.

Key words : commentator Hanazawa Yuichiro
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240729155459739/

Quad FMs meet as Japan, US pursue more Indo-Pacific partners

The Quad's foreign ministers have met as fears grow over regional stability. NHK WORLD's Hanazawa Yuichiro tells us how Japan and the US hope to keep the status quo with a growing list of partners.

Key words : french prosecutor
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240729_09/

France opens probe into death threats against Israeli athletes at Paris Games

French prosecutors have opened an investigation into death threats against Israeli athletes competing in the Paris Olympic Games.

The Paris prosecutors office says threatening emails were sent to three Israeli athletes participating in the Olympics that opened in the French capital on Friday. What was written in the emails has not been disclosed.

Investigators told NHK they are probing the incident on suspicion of threatening to kill from discriminatory motives against a particular state or religion, among others.

The AFP News Agency has reported that personal information on Israeli athletes taking part in the Games were illegally released on the social media platform Telegram on Friday when the Olympic opening ceremony took place.

The personal data included blood test results and passwords to log in to online services.

The data have been removed at the request of French authorities.

The safety of Israeli athletes is one of the challenges for French authorities as fighting continues in the Gaza Strip between Israeli forces and the Islamic group Hamas.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said, "Israeli athletes have been among the delegations particularly targeted." He added, "That's why I decided to provide the Israeli delegation with 24-hour protection."

Key words : israel soccer field blinken
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240729_15/

Israel set to continue retaliation for deadly strike it blames on Hezbollah

Israel has indicated it will take more action in retaliation against a deadly strike on a soccer field in the Israel-occupied Golan Heights.

The country claims that Lebanon-based Hezbollah is responsible for Saturday's rocket attack that killed 12 people, including children, and wounded more than 20 others. But the Shia Muslim group denies involvement.

The Israeli military announced on Sunday it struck a series of Hezbollah targets in Lebanon.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Hezbollah will bear a heavy price for their actions.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is visiting Japan, told reporters on Sunday that every indication is that the rockets or the rocket was from Hezbollah.

Blinken said: "We stand by Israel's right to defend its citizens from terrorist attacks. But we also don't want to see the conflict escalate." He added that the best way is to get a ceasefire in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued intense attacks on the Gaza Strip on Sunday. Local media reported that Israeli warplanes bombed tents of displaced citizens in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, killing three people, including a child.

Health officials in Gaza say 39,324 people have been killed since the conflict began last October.

Key words : heatstroke alert sano
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240729_22/

Mercury tops 40 degrees in central Japan

The mercury topped 40 degrees Celsius in Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan, on Monday morning.

Japanese weather officials say a high pressure system is bringing sunny weather to western and eastern Japan, driving up temperatures from the morning.

The temperature in Shizuoka's Hamamatsu City was 40.2 degrees shortly after 11:40 a.m.

By 11:30 a.m., the mercury had risen to 38.7 degrees in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture; 38.3 in Tokyo's Hachioji City; and 38.2 in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture.

Daytime highs are expected to be 41 degrees in Hamamatsu and 40 in Saitama Prefecture's Kumagaya City, Yamanashi Prefecture's Kofu City and Gunma's Maebashi City.

Heatstroke alerts have been issued for 38 out of 47 prefectures.

People are advised to take thorough protective measures. They include avoiding non-essential outings, not hesitating to use air conditioning and frequently taking fluids and salt.

Close attention should be paid to elderly people and infants because they are at higher risk of developing heatstroke.

Key words : forecast Jonathan Oh
#N/A

at 18:00 (JST), July 28

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240728180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : modi ukraine
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_08/

Indian media: Modi to visit Ukraine in August

Indian media have reported that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is considering a visit to Ukraine in August.

If it is realized, it will be his first trip to the country since Russia's invasion in 2022.

The media outlets quoted diplomatic sources on Saturday as saying that the visit is likely to be around August 23.

India and Russia have traditionally maintained friendly ties. Modi visited Moscow and met President Vladimir Putin earlier this month. He told Putin that the death of innocent children in Ukraine was "painful and terrifying".

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized their display of friendship.

He said on a social media that it was a huge disappointment to see the leader of the world's largest democracy hug the world's most bloody criminal in Moscow.

Zelenskyy touched upon the Group of Seven leaders' summit in Hiroshima, Japan, last year where both he and Modi took part.

Stressing the importance of India, he said that it was the first time that Ukraine had made strong contact with the country and "it was very important during the war."

The expected visit will be closely watched to see if India seeks to strengthen ties with Ukraine.

Key words : health authorities school
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_07/

Palestinian authorities: 30 killed in airstrikes on school in central Gaza

Health authorities in the Gaza Strip say that Israeli airstrikes on a school in central Gaza have killed 30 people and injured more than 100.

The Israeli military said on Saturday that it struck a school where a Hamas command and control center was embedded.

It said that Hamas used the school compound as a hiding place.

The military added that it took numerous steps to reduce the risk to civilians prior to the attack.

Authorities in Gaza condemned Israel, saying that it committed a massacre by bombing a field hospital set up in the school.

They also said that 23 people were killed in Israeli attacks in Khan Younis in the south. It's an area where Israel had issued a new evacuation order.

Footage taken by NHK Gaza office staff at a hospital in Khan Younis shows numerous injured people being carried in.

A man there said that people were buying groceries in the market when the airstrike occurred.

Health authorities in Gaza say that the death toll since October 7 has reached 39,258.

Key words : israel soccer field
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_09/

Israel vows response to deadly soccer field strike it blames on Hezbollah

Israel has vowed to respond to a deadly strike on a soccer field in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. The country says that Lebanon-based Hezbollah is responsible, but the Shia Muslim group denies involvement.

An Israeli military spokesperson said on Saturday that a Hezbollah rocket attack killed 10 people including children playing soccer earlier in the day. More than 20 others were said to have been injured.

The Israeli prime minister's office quoted Benjamin Netanyahu as saying, "Israel will not overlook this murderous attack," and that "Hezbollah will pay a heavy price."

Hezbollah said in a statement that the group "has absolutely nothing to do with the incident and denies all false allegations in this regard."

Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah are rising as they have recently been trading fire while Israel continues fighting with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Hezbollah has shown solidarity with Hamas.

The White House National Security Council condemned the attack in a statement on Saturday. It said, "Israel continues to face severe threats to its security," and "the United States will continue to support efforts to end these terrible attacks." It added, "Our support for Israel's security is iron-clad and unwavering against all Iranian-backed terrorist groups, including Lebanese Hezbollah."

Key words : defense leaders
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_11/

Japan, US, South Korea defense chiefs agree to step up cooperation

Defense leaders of Japan, the United States and South Korea have agreed to step up cooperation. They've signed a memorandum to institutionalize trilateral security efforts such as information sharing and joint exercises.

Japanese Defense Minister Kihara Minoru, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik held talks in Japan on Sunday. The country hosted the three-way meeting for the first time.

Kihara said the trilateral cooperation is extremely important for peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, in the Indo-Pacific and beyond amid the worsening security environment.

He said the talks would cover issues such as relations between North Korea and Russia, the East and South China seas, and ways to boost trilateral defense cooperation.

The defense leaders condemned North Korea's launches of ballistic missiles and expressed concern over its increasing military cooperation with Russia.

They confirmed that they would hold the trilateral ministerial meeting on a regular basis to further develop cooperation and effectively cope with provocations and threats.

After the talks, they signed a memorandum to institutionalize cooperation. It calls for annual senior-level policy consultations, the sharing of real-time information about North Korea's missile launches, and organized and effective implementation of joint drills.

Kihara told reporters that the memorandum is designed to document what the three countries have implemented and will continue to do in the future. He said the document has bolstered trilateral cooperation, enabling them to stand firm against various international changes. He said Japan will continue taking measures to strengthen cooperation based on the memorandum and contribute to regional peace and stability.

Key words : blinken wang thomas
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_05/

Blinken, Wang remain at odds on South China Sea, Taiwan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi remain at odds on issues such as the South China Sea and Taiwan. Still, the US State Department says both sides recognized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication.

The two officials met in Laos on Saturday on the margins of meetings related to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The State Department says Blinken raised concerns about Beijing's "destabilizing actions" in the South China Sea, including at the Second Thomas Shoal.

The Philippines has a military outpost at the shoal and delivers supplies to personnel stationed there. But Manila says in recent months Beijing has taken coercive actions against Philippine ships in nearby waters.

The State Department says Blinken affirmed US support for peacefully resolving disputes in accordance with international law.

China's foreign ministry says Wang explained that Beijing had reached a deal with Manila on a temporary arrangement to manage the situation. It says he urged the US not to stir up trouble or undermine maritime stability regarding the shoal.

The Philippines announced the provisional arrangement on troop rotation and resupply missions for the shoal on July 21.

The State Department says Blinken also emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

China's foreign ministry says Wang responded that China will counter every provocation by what he calls the "Taiwan independence" forces.

Regarding issues related to Ukraine, the State Department says Blinken reiterated "serious concern" over China's support for Russia's defense industrial base.

It adds that Blinken was adamant that if Beijing fails to address "this threat to European security," Washington will continue to take appropriate countermeasures.

In response, Wang said the US should stop its "unilateral" sanctions.

Key words : kamikawa 18 countries
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_17/

East Asia Summit foreign ministers' meeting wraps up in Laos

The East Asia Summit of the foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other global powers has wrapped up in Laos. Their discussions included the situation in the South China Sea and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov were among those from 18 countries taking part in the meeting held in the capital Vientiane on Saturday.

ASEAN diplomatic sources say multiple countries, including the United States and Australia, voiced opposition against the use of force in the South China Sea, where China is stepping up maritime advances.

Tensions persist in the sea with such incidents as a violent faceoff between Chinese coast guard ships and Philippine vessels.

China reacted sharply, accusing the US of trying to worsen the situation along with others.

Regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, many countries called for an end to the incursion and for the protection of the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

Kamikawa stressed the importance of maintaining and strengthening the rules-based international order. She added that any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force cannot be tolerated in any place in the world.

Russia objected, saying that a mistake by Western countries has led to the problem.

Participants also reportedly discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, where fighting drags on between Israel and the Islamic group Hamas, and ways to resolve the conflict.

Key words : kamikawa sergey
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_17/

East Asia Summit foreign ministers' meeting wraps up in Laos

The East Asia Summit of the foreign ministers from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other global powers has wrapped up in Laos. Their discussions included the situation in the South China Sea and Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov were among those from 18 countries taking part in the meeting held in the capital Vientiane on Saturday.

ASEAN diplomatic sources say multiple countries, including the United States and Australia, voiced opposition against the use of force in the South China Sea, where China is stepping up maritime advances.

Tensions persist in the sea with such incidents as a violent faceoff between Chinese coast guard ships and Philippine vessels.

China reacted sharply, accusing the US of trying to worsen the situation along with others.

Regarding Russia's invasion of Ukraine, many countries called for an end to the incursion and for the protection of the territorial integrity of Ukraine.

Kamikawa stressed the importance of maintaining and strengthening the rules-based international order. She added that any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force cannot be tolerated in any place in the world.

Russia objected, saying that a mistake by Western countries has led to the problem.

Participants also reportedly discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, where fighting drags on between Israel and the Islamic group Hamas, and ways to resolve the conflict.

Key words : fishing boat tottori
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240728_10/

Leisure fishing boat hits breakwater in western Japan, injuring 11

All eleven people including a captain onboard a leisure fishing boat were injured when it hit a breakwater in Tottori Prefecture in western Japan, facing the Sea of Japan. Two are seriously injured.

Coast Guard officials say that the boat, Daini Ai Maru, was cruising off the coast of Sakaiminato City when it hit the breakwater some 500 meters away from a quay at about 6:00 a.m. Sunday.

Emergency officials say that men from their 20s to their 60s were on board and that all of them were brought to a hospital.

One in his 40s and another in his 60s are said to have bumped their heads hard and were seriously injured.

Coast guard officials confirmed that the left side of the bow of the boat is damaged.

Elsewhere, about six kilometers northeast from the site, near a cape in Matsue City, another leisure fishing boat struck rocks at around 1:00 a.m. Five people were injured.

at 18:00 (JST), July 27

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240727180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : unesco 26
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_12/

Mines on Sado Island granted UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status

UNESCO's World Heritage Committee, meeting in New Delhi, India, has decided to list a complex of primarily gold mines on Sado Island in the Sea of Japan as a World Cultural Heritage site.

It will be the 26th world heritage site in Japan.

The committee started discussing the listing of the mines on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, which Japan had recommended to UNESCO, around 10 a.m. on Saturday local time. The committee then unanimously voted in favor of the listing.

South Korea had opposed registering the mines on grounds that people from the Korean Peninsula were forced to work there. But Seoul agreed to the listing following dialogue with Tokyo.

A representative from the Japanese government says it will faithfully remember all the people who worked at the mines, especially those from the Korean Peninsula, and will continue to work closely with South Korea to beef up a strategy to comprehensively explain and display the history of the mines at the exhibition facility.

A delegation from Niigata Prefecture, led by Gov. Hanazumi Hideyo, watched the committee's proceedings and celebrated the decision to list the Sado mines.

Key words : paris olympic officially open greece
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_04/

Paris wows crowds with Olympic opening ceremony

The 2024 Paris Olympics are officially open. Friday's opening ceremony was the first for a summer Games to be held outside a stadium. The French capital previously hosted the Olympics in 1900 and 1924.

This time, the athletes paraded on boats along the River Seine. The procession started with Greece, birthplace of the Olympics. Russians and Belarusians competing as neutrals were barred from the ceremony.

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach delivered a speech. And French President Emmanuel Macron officially declared the Games open.

There are 329 events across 32 sports at the Paris Olympics.

Athletes from about 200 countries and territories are taking part. The event runs through August 11.

Key words : financial leader communique
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_08/

G20 financial leaders see rising chance of global economic soft landing

Financial leaders from the Group of 20 major economies say in a joint communique they see a rising chance of a soft landing of the world economy.

Finance ministers and central bank governors from the G20 wrapped up two-day talks in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Friday.

They said in the communique they are encouraged by the "increasing likelihood of a soft landing of the global economy, although multiple challenges remain."

The document says "downside risks include wars and escalating conflicts" and persistent inflation that keeps interest rates higher for longer.

It says the G20 members will coordinate their policies and maintain communications toward strong and sustainable growth.

The finance ministers and central bank governors also issued the Rio de Janeiro declaration, which aims to introduce new rules for imposing taxes on IT giants that provide services across national borders.

Japan's Finance Minister Suzuki Shunichi said the officials had thorough discussions on issues the global economy is facing. He said Japan's opinions are reflected in the outcome.

Analysts say the G20 members still have different positions and stakes in the situations in Ukraine and the Middle East.

They say many countries are concerned about capital outflows and weaker currencies as interest rates remain high in the US and Europe.

They add that the result of the US presidential election and political situations in other nations could have an impact on the global economy.

Key words : kamikawa wang last met
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_09/

Japan, China foreign ministers meet in Laos

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko has met with her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of ASEAN-related foreign ministers' meetings in Laos.

Kamikawa and Wang last met in the South Korean city of Busan in November.

Wang said, "China will pursue the development of bilateral relations in a healthy and stable manner."

Kamikawa said, "The two countries share many possibilities while facing difficult issues. We need to continue dialogue on multiple levels in a steady and tenacious manner."

Kamikawa also called for an end to China's suspension of Japanese seafood imports.

China took the measure in response to Japan discharging treated and diluted water into the sea from the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. The two ministers touched on the continuing working-level talks on the release, and dialogue involving experts. They agreed to accelerate the process of settling the issue.

Kamikawa also strongly urged Beijing to respond to matters of bilateral concern, including removing a buoy China placed in Japan's exclusive economic zone, quickly releasing Japanese nationals detained in China, and addressing tensions in the East China Sea.

Key words : kamikawa david
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_02/

Japan, UK foreign ministers eye closer security ties

The top diplomats of Japan and Britain say their countries will continue to promote security cooperation, while viewing the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions as inseparable.

Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy met on Friday in Laos.

Kamikawa congratulated Lammy on his appointment earlier this month, and said Japan is closely communicating with the new UK government, including at the leaders' level.

She also expressed hope that the two countries will further advance bilateral relations.

Lammy echoed her view, and expressed a willingness to collaborate.

Kamikawa and Lammy confirmed that their countries will continue jointly developing a next-generation fighter jet.

British media said last week that the new government might review the project due to concerns about funding.

Key words : trump netanyahu exchange
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_05/

Trump, Israeli PM Netanyahu exchange views on fighting in Gaza

Former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have exchanged views about ongoing fighting between Israel and the Islamic group Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Trump, the Republican Party's presidential nominee, met with Netanyahu at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Friday. The Israeli leader addressed a joint session of Congress in Washington on Wednesday.

Trump referred to the hostages taken by Hamas. He said they are "obviously not being treated properly," and called the situation unacceptable.

He expressed willingness to realize peace in the Middle East if he wins the presidential election in November.

He said: "If we win, it'll be very simple. It's all gonna work out and very quickly. If we don't, you're gonna end up with major wars in the Middle East and maybe a third world war."

Netanyahu said he will dispatch a team to the Italian capital Rome probably early next week to negotiate a deal for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.

He added that he thinks there has been "some movement because of the military pressure that we exerted."

He expressed hope that there will be "sufficient movement" to complete a deal.

Key words : china knife
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_03/

China honors woman killed in attack on bus carrying Japanese children

China has awarded a woman for her bravery after she reportedly died attempting to prevent a knife attack on a bus carrying Japanese schoolchildren.

The Communist Party's Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission, which oversees the police and judiciary, on Friday released a list of 48 "bravely models," including Hu Youping.

On June 24, a man armed with a knife attacked a bus in the eastern city of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province. The incident left bus attendant Hu dead, and a Japanese mother and her child injured.

Police said Hu tried to stop the attacker and prevented more people from becoming victims.

Authorities said the attack was an "isolated incident," and have not disclosed the assailant's motive.

The awards are handed out every three months. The commission says Hu's deed has been viewed more than 1.3 billion times.

Key words : heavy rain small amount updated
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240727_10/

More heavy rain likely in Tohoku region, northeastern Japan

Heavy rain is expected to again hit the Tohoku region in northeastern Japan through around Tuesday.

The Meteorological Agency says the prefectures of Yamagata and Akita in Tohoku were hit by record rain in the past few days as a seasonal rain front became active.

The downpours have caused the Mogami River and other rivers to overflow, submerging some areas and triggering landslides. River levels remain high in Yamagata Prefecture. The ground has loosened, mainly in northern parts of Tohoku.

Rainfall had eased for a while. But the rain front stretched again over Tohoku on Saturday morning and rain clouds are developing in some parts of Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures.

Weather officials say localized torrential rain with lightning will likely hit Tohoku through late Saturday night. Intermittent downpours are possible mainly in areas along the Sea of Japan coast through around Tuesday.

In the 24 hours through Sunday noon, up to 180 millimeters of rain is expected in Sea of Japan coast areas of Tohoku and 120 millimeters in areas on the Pacific side of the region.

In the 24-hour period through Monday noon, up to 200 millimeters of rain is forecast for the Sea of Japan side and 120 millimeters on the Pacific side.

Weather officials say that even a small amount of rain could heighten disaster risks in Tohoku. They are warning against overflowing rivers, flooding and landslides.
The officials say that other prefectures, such as Niigata and Hokkaido, may have heavy rain depending on the flow of damp air.

People are advised to stay updated on the latest weather information.

at 18:00 (JST), July 26

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240726180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : suspected france massive attack
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240726_24/

France's high-speed train network TGV disrupted due to 'sabotage'

Services on France's high-speed railway network have severely been disrupted by suspected acts of sabotage hours before the Olympic Games officially open in Paris.

The national railway operator said on Friday that lines of the TGV network connecting Paris with the country's northern and eastern regions became the victim of "several acts of malicious damage" overnight.

Eurostar, a high-speed train network linking the European continent and Britain, is also affected and many services have been canceled.

The operator also says arson attacks were carried out to damage its facilities and cables have been cut.

It adds that teams "are already on site to diagnose the problem and begin repairs" but "this situation is expected to last at least through the weekend while repairs are carried out."

The operator posted a message on social media, saying that a massive attack aimed at paralyzing the high-speed rail network has led to the cancellation of many trains.

It asks all passengers to postpone their journeys and not to go to stations.

French transport minister Patrice Vergriete said in a social media post that coordinated malicious acts targeted several TGV lines.

He also said he strongly condemns these criminal actions which will compromise the vacation departures of many French people.

Many people have gone to main railway stations in Paris to leave for their summer holidays.

The Olympic opening ceremony is due to be held in Paris on Friday evening.

Key words : disrupted station
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240726_24/

France's high-speed train network TGV disrupted due to 'sabotage'

Services on France's high-speed railway network have severely been disrupted by suspected acts of sabotage hours before the Olympic Games officially open in Paris.

The national railway operator said on Friday that lines of the TGV network connecting Paris with the country's northern and eastern regions became the victim of "several acts of malicious damage" overnight.

Eurostar, a high-speed train network linking the European continent and Britain, is also affected and many services have been canceled.

The operator also says arson attacks were carried out to damage its facilities and cables have been cut.

It adds that teams "are already on site to diagnose the problem and begin repairs" but "this situation is expected to last at least through the weekend while repairs are carried out."

The operator posted a message on social media, saying that a massive attack aimed at paralyzing the high-speed rail network has led to the cancellation of many trains.

It asks all passengers to postpone their journeys and not to go to stations.

French transport minister Patrice Vergriete said in a social media post that coordinated malicious acts targeted several TGV lines.

He also said he strongly condemns these criminal actions which will compromise the vacation departures of many French people.

Many people have gone to main railway stations in Paris to leave for their summer holidays.

The Olympic opening ceremony is due to be held in Paris on Friday evening.

Key words : heavy rain mogami shinjo
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240726_04/

Heavy rain emergency warning issued for Yamagata Prefecture for 2nd time in day

The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a heavy rain emergency warning for Yamagata Prefecture for the second time in the space of a day on Thursday.

The warning is the highest level on the country's five-tier alert scale, and urges people to exercise maximum caution over rivers bursting their banks, flooding and mudslides.

The latest emergency warning was issued at 11:40 p.m. on Thursday. It covers the cities of Sakata and Shinjo, the towns of Funagata and Shonai and the villages of Sakegawa and Tozawa.

JMA officials say an active seasonal rain front has brought record downpours to the northeastern prefectures of Yamagata and Akita.

Bands of clouds that cause torrential rain developed over some areas of Yamagata Prefecture, prompting agency officials to issue a bulletin on significant rainfall.

The Nikko River, which runs through Sakata City in Yamagata, overflowed, as did the Koyoshi River in Akita's Yurihonjo City.

Overflowing warnings are in place for the Sakegawa, Mogamioguni, Oyama, Aizawa and Nyu rivers as well as the middle and lower reaches of the Mogami River -- all in Yamagata Prefecture. Some other rivers in Yamagata and Akita prefectures are also above overflowing warning levels.

A mudslide alert is in effect for some parts of Yamagata, Akita, Miyagi and Iwate prefectures.

Total expected precipitation for the 24-hour period through Friday night could reach 150 millimeters in northeastern Japan. Even more rain is expected for the region after that.

People in rain-hit areas should move to higher floors in their homes if they feel it is too dangerous to flee to evacuation shelters. In that case, they say it will be safer to stay in rooms facing away from mountain slopes.

The meteorological agency had issued a heavy rain emergency warning for Sakata City and Yuza Town in Yamagata Prefecture shortly after 1 p.m. on Thursday, before downgrading it to a warning in the evening.

Key words : Biden gap agreement
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240726_N02/

Biden and Netanyahu discuss Gaza ceasefire

US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met on Thursday at the White House to discuss efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the unfolding humanitarian crisis there.

The two leaders met in person for the first time since Biden visited Israel in October, less than two weeks after the Hamas attacks on October 7.

In welcoming Netanyahu, Biden said, "We've got a lot to talk about."

White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby suggested there are "gaps" between Israel and Hamas over a truce. However, he added that they are "closer" than ever before to an agreement.

Kirby said, "They believe, the president believes, that getting that hostage deal in place, getting that six-week ceasefire, that's the best way to get all these loved ones back with their families."

The leaders also met with the families of American hostages.

A father of one of the hostages said, "We feel probably more optimistic than we have since the first round of releases in late November, early December, when a little over 100 of Israel's hostages were released."

Protesters gathered outside the White House to express their anger over the conduct of Israeli forces in Gaza and Biden's support for Israel's war effort. They revisited their calls that Netanyahu should be arrested for war crimes.

Netanyahu also met Vice President Kamala Harris, Biden's successor as the Democrats presumptive nominee for president. A senior US official suggested the Israelis would see "full alignment" between Biden and Harris.

Netanyahu will travel to Florida on Friday to meet with former President Donald Trump.

Key words : taiwan climber
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240726154406490/

Taiwan's eased climbing rules prompt damage, safety concerns

For years authorities have imposed strict rules on climbers hoping to scale some of Taiwan's popular mountains. But recently, things have gotten a bit more relaxed, causing concerns over the potential for more accidents and damage to the environment.

Key words : ohtani 250
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240726_17/

Ohtani Shohei hits 250th career home run

Japanese Major League Baseball star Ohtani Shohei has hit the 250th home run of his entire career, which includes his time in Japan and the United States.

Ohtani started as a designated hitter on Thursday. He was first in the lineup for the Los Angeles Dodgers in their home game against the San Francisco Giants.

The milestone home run came in the eighth inning during Ohtani's fifth time at bat. He slammed the first pitch -- a slider -- into the right-field stands. The ball came off the bat with an exit velocity of over 181 kilometers per hour.

The solo round-tripper was Ohtani's 31st homer of the season and his first in four games.

Ohtani has now scored 202 home runs in Major League Baseball. When combined with the 48 homers that he hit during his time with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan, his career total is 250.

Ohtani also hit a double during the game. He went two for four, with one walk and one RBI. His batting average of .312 is the best among the players in the National League.

The Dodgers beat the Giants 6-4.

Key words : landslide Sayaka Mori
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at 18:00 (JST), July 25

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240725180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : yamagata yuza
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240725_18/

Highest-level rain warning issued for Japan's Yamagata Prefecture

Japan's Meteorological Agency on Thursday afternoon issued a heavy rain emergency warning for Sakata City and Yuza Town in the northern prefecture of Yamagata.

Weather officials issued the highest-level warning on the five-scale alert system as the prefecture was being battered by downpours caused by an active seasonal rain front.

They say warm and moist air flowing toward the front in northern Japan is creating extremely unstable atmospheric conditions on the Sea of Japan side of the Tohoku region.

Radar analysis shows that 110 millimeters of rain fell near Yuza Town in the hour until 9:10 a.m.

Neighboring Akita Prefecture is also being hit by torrential rain.

In the 24 hours to Thursday noon, 226 millimeters of rain fell in Yurihonjo City and 193.5 millimeters in Yuzawa City, exceeding the monthly average for July.

The Ishizawa River overflowed in Yurihonjo City when heavy rain caused its embankment to partially collapse.

Landslide warnings have been issued for areas of Akita Prefecture, Yamagata Prefecture and Miyagi Prefecture.

Weather officials say it will continue to rain in the Sea of Japan coastal areas in Tohoku through tomorrow, with heavy downpours feared in some places.

They are urging residents to be on the alert for landslides, overflowing rivers and flooding in low-lying areas.

They advise people who are facing dangerous conditions and are unable to move to safer places to seek shelter on upper floors in rooms away from slopes and cliffs.

Yamagata Shinkansen trains partially suspended

East Japan Railway says it will suspend bullet train runs on the Yamagata Shinkansen Line all day Thursday between Yamagata and Shinjo stations in Yamagata Prefecture, northeastern Japan.

The prefecture has been engulfed by heavy rain brought by an active rain front.

One man missing Akita Prefecture landslide

A man in his 60s had gone missing following a landslide at a construction site on Thursday morning in Japan's northwestern prefecture of Akita.

Yuzawa City fire officials say a worker at a road construction site in Yuzawa City called to report that the landslide had buried a colleague.

Fears of secondary disasters have postponed search efforts by police and firefighters.

Rain continues to pound Akita Prefecture, mainly in the south. Yuzawa City recorded nearly 200 millimeters of rain in the past 24 hours.

Two people stranded in flooded house
Local fire department officials said two people are stranded inside a house flooded by heavy rains in Sakegawa Village.

The officials said firefighters are on the way to rescue them as of 1:30 p.m.

Key words : landslide tsuruoka
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Key words : heavy rain Sayaka Mori
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Key words : Biden first public younger voices
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240725_11/

Biden delivers first address since ending campaign

US President Joe Biden has given his first public address in Washington since deciding to drop his bid for re-election. He says it's time to make way for younger voices.

Biden said he has decided that the best way forward is to pass the torch to a new generation, adding that it's the best way to unite the nation.

Biden ended his campaign Sunday, weeks after a poor debate performance and amid growing calls from members of his own Democratic Party to step aside.

He's endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. She's expected to officially become the party's nominee in the coming weeks.

Biden also mentioned Harris in his speech, saying, "She's experienced, she's tough, she's capable, she's been an incredible partner to me, and a leader for our country."

Biden said he chose to run for office four years ago because "the soul of America was at stake." He added that it still is, noting that Americans have a choice between moving forward or backward.

Biden also said: "the great thing about America is here kings and dictators do not rule, the people do. History is in your hands. The power is in your hand. The idea of America lies in your hands."

Biden said he'll spend the next six months focusing on his job as president, growing the economy and defending people's rights.

Key words : netanyahu speech nancy
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240725_08/

Netanyahu seeks more US military support in Congress speech

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appealed to Congress for more military support from the United States in fighting the Islamic group Hamas, as the number of civilians killed in Gaza grows and criticism against his government mounts.

Netanyahu is visiting the US for the first time since the conflict with Hamas began last October. On Wednesday, he addressed a joint session of Congress in Washington.

He said, "The war in Gaza could end tomorrow if Hamas surrenders," but if they do not, Israel will fight until it destroys Hamas' military capability, their rule over Gaza and brings all the hostages home.

Netanyahu added, "Fast-tracking US military aid can dramatically expedite an end to the war in Gaza and help prevent a broader war in the Middle East."

Netanyahu quoted former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who sought US weapons during World War Two: "Give us the tools and we'll finish the job."

He also said Israel does not seek to resettle Gaza, but in the foreseeable future it must retain overriding security control there. He suggested that Gaza should have Palestinian civilian control.

Health authorities in Gaza said on Wednesday that the total number of deaths in the enclave had reached 39,145.

Netanyahu was greeted with loud applause as he entered the chamber, and repeatedly received standing ovations during his address.

But some Democratic lawmakers did not applaud, and Netanyahu was booed when he criticized protest demonstrations in the US.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is a Jewish American and pro-Israel. He has made critical remarks about Netanyahu, and expressed disapproval on several occasions during the speech.

Democratic Representative Rashida Tlaib, a Palestinian American, held up a sign that said "war criminal."

CNN reported that former Speaker Nancy Pelosi and nearly 50 Democrats planned to skip the speech.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who serves as Senate president, was also absent for scheduling reasons.

Outside the Capitol, at least several thousand people gathered from across the US to protest Netanyahu's address to Congress.

They demanded an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, holding up signs that called for all military aid to be halted.

One participant said she came to send a message to Congress and the government that Netanyahu's speech in the Capitol cannot be accepted. She accused them of being complicit in genocide and war crimes.

Key words : foreign minister laos draft
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240725_03/

Foreign ministers meetings of ASEAN, related countries kick off Thursday

A series of foreign ministers meetings among ASEAN and related countries is set to start in Laos on Thursday. The Myanmar and South China Sea issues are expected to be high on the agenda.

The meetings will be held in the capital, Vientiane, through Saturday. The related countries include the United States, China, Russia and Japan.

The ASEAN foreign ministers meeting is to take place on Thursday. A main topic is expected to be the situation in Myanmar, where fierce fighting has continued since the coup in 2021.

Myanmar's military regime had boycotted major ASEAN meetings. But this year it has sent senior officials to ministerial-level meetings. The permanent secretary of the foreign ministry will attend the meetings in Laos.

A draft for the joint statement obtained by NHK indicates the ASEAN members are making arrangements to include the expression that the ministers strongly condemn the continued violence in Myanmar. The focus is on whether they will discuss ways to calm the situation.

Meetings among ASEAN and the related countries will be held on Friday. All eyes are on discussions between the Philippines and China, which are at odds over their sovereignty claims in the South China Sea.

At the ASEAN Regional Forum on Saturday, the participants are expected to exchange views on security in the Asia-Pacific region, including situations related to North Korea and Taiwan.

Key words : world weather Sayaka Mori
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at 18:00 (JST), July 24

https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/upld/medias/en/radio/news/20240724180000_english_1.mp3


Key words : defense minister italy
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240724_02/

Japan, UK, Italy reaffirm goal of deploying next-generation fighter jet in 2035

Defense ministers of Japan, Britain and Italy have reaffirmed that their countries will continue their joint development of a next-generation fighter jet with the aim of deploying the aircraft in 2035.

Japanese Defense Minister Kihara Minoru, British Defence Secretary John Healey and Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto met in London on Tuesday.

Trilateral talks on the matter were held in December last year. But this is the first time Healey has taken part, as Britain had a change of government this month.

Kihara expressed his hope to make the joint project a success to deepen a strong defense partnership based on shared values such as the rule of law.

The three ministers agreed to continue working to set up an organization coordinating the project named the Global Combat Air Programme by the end of the year.

Key words : commentator Masuda Tsuyoshi
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/videos/20240724152016991/

Analysis on the Japan-UK-Italy fighter jet development program

Japan, the UK and Italy say joint development of a new fighter jet is still happening. The announcement comes following a big political shift in the UK and reports London could cancel the plan. NHK World's Senior Political Commentator Masuda Tsuyoshi provides his analysis.

Key words : taiwan annual anti-aircraft
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240724_13/

Taiwan's military conducts anti-landing live-fire drills

Taiwan's military has conducted live-fire drills on remote islands to simulate the prevention of a Chinese military landing.

The drills using live ammunition were staged on the Penghu Islands in the Taiwan Strait on Wednesday morning as part of the annual large-scale military exercises that began on Monday.

Wednesday's drills started with anti-aircraft fire, and military personnel shot down drones with portable missiles.

Flares were also launched and treated as enemy drones, which were attacked from the coast with howitzers and mortars.

During maritime target practice, other portable missiles were launched. The personnel and tanks carried out a simultaneous attack following a command from a senior officer, causing splashes on the sea surface.

An approaching typhoon forced the military to cancel some parts of the exercises. But Taiwan's defense ministry shared live footage of the exercises with some foreign media outlets, including NHK, apparently to demonstrate its self-defense capabilities and determination.

Key words : foreign minister boost china
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240724_09/

Ukrainian foreign minister calls on China to boost bilateral ties

Ukraine's foreign minister is now visiting China in a bid to boost bilateral relations.

China's foreign ministry said Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba is scheduled to meet with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi during his stay.

Amid Russia's intensifying attacks on eastern Ukraine, Ukraine apparently is seeking China's cooperation in achieving a peace plan.

In a video message posted by the Ukrainian embassy in Beijing on Chinese social media, Kuleba said Kyiv is "working tirelessly with the international community to achieve peace based on the peace formula presented by Ukraine."

As for his meeting with Wang, Kuleba said, "We will discuss important matters, such as the restoration of peace, deepening our bilateral dialogue, expanding trade and economic cooperation."

Meanwhile, the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology said on Tuesday that the majority of Ukrainians are still opposed to any territorial concession.

The institute's survey showed that 55 percent of respondents said, "Under no circumstances should Ukraine give up any of its territories, even if because of this the war will last longer and there will be threats to the preservation of independence."

However, the percentage of those who chose this answer is declining. The figure was 74 percent last December and 65 percent in February.

Key words : first match
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240724_19/

Palestine Olympic Committee urges IOC to ban Israel from Paris Games

The Palestine Olympic Committee has demanded that the International Olympic Committee ban Israel from the upcoming Paris Olympics.

The Palestinian committee said it sent an official letter to IOC President Thomas Bach on Monday.

The letter asserts that Israel is violating a resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly last November.

The resolution calls for an Olympic truce for all conflicts around the world from seven days before the opening of the Olympics to seven days after the closing of the Paralympics.

The Palestinian Football Association also sent a letter to FIFA, soccer's world governing body, requesting that it not allow the Israeli team to participate in the Olympics. Israel is scheduled to play its first match against Mali on Wednesday.

The letter reportedly noted that allowing the Israeli team to take part in the games under these circumstances would undermine FIFA's basic objectives and principles of respecting human rights and non-discrimination.

Key words : weather Jonathan Oh
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Key words : eat eel kagoshima
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240724_14/

Diners in Japan eat eel to beat the heat on the Day of the Ox

Wednesday marks the midsummer Day of the Ox, when eating eel is traditionally believed to help people maintain their stamina in the summer heat.

Kagoshima Prefecture in southwest Japan is the nation's top producer of farmed eel.

People in Kagoshima City flocked to a grilled eel restaurant in the downtown Tenmonkan district that has been in business since 1932.

The restaurant opened 10 minutes earlier than the usual time of 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday as a long line of customers formed outside.

The restaurant said it had secured about double the usual number of local eels for the Day of the Ox and began preparing the delicacy from around 5 a.m.

Eel fillets were dipped in a sauce and grilled over a charcoal fire before being served to diners, who were awaiting their treat as an appetizing smell filled the restaurant.

A counter was set up in front of the restaurant for those who want to buy takeout.

A Tokyo resident who had returned to his hometown on vacation with his wife said he felt lucky to visit the city this time of year. He said he enjoyed the dish, which helps him weather the heat.

A woman in her 60s, who has been a regular customer for about 30 years, said she enjoyed the soft eel fillets.

Noting that the summer is forecast to be extremely hot, the owner of the restaurant said he hopes people will enjoy the local specialty and beat the summer heat.