Trial Unfolds in Abe's Assassination Case: The Gunman Speaks

In a dramatic opening to the trial of Shinzo Abe's accused assassin, Tetsuya Yamagami confessed to the charges of murder on Tuesday. The trial took place nearly three years after Abe, Japan's longest-serving prime minister, was gunned down during a campaign speech in Nara, shocking the nation.

Yamagami, appearing composed in court, admitted to using a homemade gun to fatally shoot Abe. His lawyer argued for a reduced sentence, citing that the gun did not qualify under the traditional classifications in Japan’s Firearms and Swords Control Act. The high-profile proceedings started as a summit convened between Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and U.S. President Donald Trump, garnering further media attention.

Yamagami reportedly harbored resentment against Abe, accusing him of promoting the Unification Church, which he claims led to his family's financial ruin. The incident unveiled connections between Abe's party and the church, affecting public perception. With 17 more hearings scheduled, a verdict is anticipated by January 21.