The most significant events this year were the Oimachi Line derailment and the economic effects of the ongoing conflict in Iran. At school, the train derailment affected many members of the St. Mary’s community who rely on Tokyo’s metro for transportation. Globally, rising food prices across Asia caused by the Iran War and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz demonstrated how international conflicts affect everyone.
The most important school-related story was “Derailed from the Derail! Train Crash Causes Commotion in SMIS” (October 9, 2025). The article covered the Oimachi Line derailment and the inconveniences it caused, which affected many students, teachers, and faculty. This event was significant because it highlighted how dependent the community is on public transportation. Even if the derailment happened on only one line, it had a chain effect that affected many. The story also demonstrated the importance of being able to adapt when sudden events like these occur. With the majority of affected people making it to school in a timely manner, the derailment demonstrated the community’s preparedness and adaptability. (https://stmarysdiplomat.com/7099/news/derailed-from-the-derail-train-crash-causes-commotion-in-smis/)
The most important world event was covered in “It’s Food Too! The Iran War Causes a Surge in Prices in Asia’s Food Economy” (May 6, 2026). The article explained how after the closing of the Strait of Hormuz, food and agricultural exports have been much more difficult and expensive to receive. This story is important because it shows how a conflict that seems distant affects other countries, not just the ones involved. It also showed the international interdependence that the world has, with countries leaning on one another for sustainability and flourishing. The story warns about the possible rise in food prices that may come in Japan, as the country depends largely on Iranian fertilizer. (https://stmarysdiplomat.com/12725/showcase/its-food-too-the-iran-war-causes-a-surge-in-prices-in-asias-food-economy/)
