Shinzo Abe was shot while giving a speech.
Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated on Friday during a campaign speech in the city of Nara. Japan’s longest-serving prime minister, Abe held his office in 2006-2007 and then from 2012 until he resigned in 2020 due to health concerns.
Current Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated, “He was a dear friend who loved this country. He was working for peace and stability in Japan and the world.“ Kishida added, “To lose such a figure in this manner is absolutely devastating.”
President Joe Biden stated, “This is a tragedy for Japan and for all who knew him. I had the privilege to work closely with Prime Minister Abe.“ He continued, “He was a champion of the Alliance between our nations and the friendship between our people. The longest serving Japanese Prime Minister, his vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific will endure. Above all, he cared deeply about the Japanese people and dedicated his life to their service.“
Vice President Kamala Harris said, “Doug and I send our deepest condolences to the family of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and the Japanese people. He was a close friend of the United States and on this tragic day, we stand with our Japanese friends in honoring him and condemning this horrific act of violence.”
From the G20 Summit, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, “This is shocking. It’s profoundly disturbing… It’s also such a strong personal loss for so many people.“ He continued, “In the United States, Prime Minister Abe was an extraordinary partner. And someone who clearly was a great leader for Japan.“
Former President Donald Trump expressed his condolences, saying, “He was a true friend of mine and, much more importantly, America. This is a tremendous blow to the wonderful people of Japan, who loved and admired him so much. We are all praying for Shinzo and his beautiful family!” He added, “He was a unifier like no other, but above all, he was a man who loved and cherished his magnificent country, Japan. Shinzo Abe will be greatly missed. There will never be another like him!”
Former President Barack Obama stated, “I am shocked and saddened by the assassination of my friend and longtime partner Shinzo Abe in Japan. Former Prime Minister Abe was devoted to both the country he served and the extraordinary alliance between the United States and Japan.” He continued, “Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to the people of Japan who are very much in our thoughts at this painful moment.”
This political assassination highlights safety concerns for U.S. political candidates who are campaigning for the midterm elections. This could impact how many view safety and security heading into the fall.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For safety for U.S. politicians and candidates as they campaign for the midterm elections this fall.
- For the family of former Prime Minister Abe and the people of Japan as they grieve this tragic loss.
- For the leaders and people of the United States as they offer condolences and prayers in the wake of the assassination.
Sources: Axios, New York Post, The Hill
