Japan PM says government will respond with ‘full force’ after powerful earthquake
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has vowed to support those affected by Tuesday’s powerful earthquake on the island of Kyushu, saying that her government will work tirelessly to respond to the emergency.
In a post on X, she expressed her “heartfelt sympathy to all those affected by this disaster,” adding that authorities would work “through the night” to determine the extent of the damage and coordinate emergency operations, including rescue work.
The earthquake poses another challenge for Takaichi, who has been in office for less than a year and has faced declining approval ratings in recent weeks amid public frustration over rising living costs and inflation.
Speaking at a news conference Tuesday, she said the government would put “human lives first” and respond with its “full force” to support communities affected by the disaster.
The government has pledged to provide essential supplies such as food and water, as well as portable air conditioners and power generators to help prevent heatstroke during Japan’s hot summer months.
Residents in areas that experienced the strongest shaking have been urged to remain vigilant, with authorities warning that aftershocks of similar strength could occur in the coming days.
