Shinzo Abe Assassin Admits Guilt in Court, Reveals Motive Behind Political

The man accused of assassinating former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has pleaded guilty. Tetsuya Yamagami admitted to the murder in a Tokyo court on October 28, 2025. The high-profile trial began three years after the shooting that shocked the world.Yamagami was arrested immediately after the July 2022 attack. The incident occurred while Abe was campaigning in the city of Nara.

Courtroom Confession and Legal Strategy

Tetsuya Yamagami appeared calm during the proceedings. He wore a black sweatshirt and grey trousers. “It is true that I did it,” he told the court, according to a report from NHK.His legal team immediately sought a reduced sentence. They argued his homemade firearm did not meet Japan’s legal definition of a handgun. This technicality could influence the final verdict.The trial opened on a significant day for Japanese politics. Incumbent Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi was hosting U.S. President Donald Trump. Both were former allies of the slain leader.

The Assassination That Stunned a Nation

The assassination happened in broad daylight. Abe was delivering a campaign speech. Yamagami allegedly fired a homemade gun from close range.According to Reuters, the motive was deeply personal. Yamagami blamed Abe for his ties to the Unification Church. He held a grudge after his mother donated massive sums to the group.This revelation triggered a political crisis in Japan. Over a hundred lawmakers from Abe’s party were found to have church connections. Public support for the ruling party plummeted as a result.

Broader Political Repercussions and Trial Timeline

The murder exposed deep-seated issues within Japanese politics. The Unification Church’s influence became a national talking point. Voters demanded greater transparency from their leaders.The case continues to shape the current government under Prime Minister Takaichi. She has had to navigate the fallout from her predecessor’s assassination. The party’s relationship with controversial religious groups remains under scrutiny.The court has scheduled up to 17 more hearings this year. A final verdict is expected on January 21. The world will be watching for the outcome of this tragic case.

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The guilty plea from Shinzo Abe’s assassin brings a somber close to a three-year wait for answers. This confession confirms the facts of the political murder that reshaped Japan. The trial will now determine the final consequence for this historic crime.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Tetsuya Yamagami?

Tetsuya Yamagami is the 45-year-old man accused of assassinating Shinzo Abe. He was arrested at the scene of the shooting in Nara in July 2022.

What was the motive for the assassination?

Yamagami blamed Abe for promoting the Unification Church. He held a grudge after his mother donated approximately 100 million yen to the religious organization.

When is the verdict expected?

The court is expected to deliver its verdict on January 21. Up to 17 more hearings are scheduled before the year’s end.

What impact did the assassination have on Japanese politics?

The killing revealed widespread ties between lawmakers and the Unification Church. This discovery significantly reduced public support for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party.

What was unique about the weapon used?

Yamagami used a homemade firearm. His defense lawyers argue it does not meet Japan’s legal definition of a handgun, which may affect his sentence.