Japan's sushi industry is also facing the repercussions of climate change. The Katsu fish used in sushi has shown extraordinary swelling and the fishermen are concerned about the future.

WION Climate Tracker | Japan's Katsu fish are swelling up | Fishermen suspect climate change

Four former executives from the Fukushima nuclear plant involved in the 2011 disaster were ordered by a Tokyo court to pay damages amounting to around 13 trillion yen ($94.8 billion), according to media reports. The lawsuit was brought against the former officials of the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) by shareholders for their role in the aftermath of the nuclear disaster that was caused by a tsunami. The case was handled by Hiroyuki Kawai who represented the shareholders and made sure that the TEPCO executives ended up paying fines for the disaster.

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"Warnings have to be issued that, if you make wrong decisions or do wrong, you must compensate with your own money," he told a press conference in 2012 according to an AFP report.

"You may have to sell your house. You may have to spend your retirement years in misery. In Japan, nothing can be resolved, and no progress can be made without assigning personal responsibility."

The joy was palpable among the plaintiffs after the judgement was passed as they celebrated the victory with signs that read "shareholders win" and "responsibility recognised."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-mass-covid-19-testing-in-shanghai-sparks-lockdown-fears-497068" hreflang="en">In pics - Mass COVID-19 testing in Shanghai sparks lockdown fears</a>

TEPCO issued a statement about the incident but declined to comment on the judgement, according to AFP. In the statement, they said - "We again express our heartfelt apology to people in Fukushima and members of the society broadly for causing trouble and worry with the disaster”.

The TEPCO executives were accused of ignoring research that warned them about the potential disaster that resulted in the worst nuclear disaster in the world since Chernobyl.

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Four former executives from the Fukushima nuclear plant involved in the 2011 disaster were ordered by a Tokyo court to pay damages amounting to around 13 trillion yen ($94.

Four former executives from the Fukushima nuclear plant involved in the 2011 disaster were ordered by a Tokyo court to pay damages amounting to around 13 trillion yen ($94.8 billion), according to media reports. The lawsuit was brought against the former officials of the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) by shareholders for their role in the aftermath of the nuclear disaster that was caused by a tsunami. The case was handled by Hiroyuki Kawai who represented the shareholders and made sure that the TEPCO executives ended up paying fines for the disaster. Also read | Anti-Hindu memes, speech: US study finds rise in anti-Hindu disinformation "Warnings have to be issued that, if you make wrong decisions or do wrong, you must compensate with your own money," he told a press conference in 2012 according to an AFP report. "You may have to sell your house. You may have to spend your retirement years in misery. In Japan, nothing can be resolved, and no progress can be made without assigning personal responsibility." The joy was palpable among the plaintiffs after the judgement was passed as they celebrated the victory with signs that read "shareholders win" and "responsibility recognised." Also read | In pics - Mass COVID-19 testing in Shanghai sparks lockdown fears TEPCO issued a statement about the incident but declined to comment on the judgement, according to AFP. In the statement, they said - "We again express our heartfelt apology to people in Fukushima and members of the society broadly for causing trouble and worry with the disaster”. The TEPCO executives were accused of ignoring research that warned them about the potential disaster that resulted in the worst nuclear disaster in the world since Chernobyl. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese court orders former executives of Fukushima operator to pay $97 billion in damages

Researchers in Japan have developed an advanced snake-shaped robot that can climb ladders and wind its way up drainpipes, raising hopes that such devices will soon be used in surveying inaccessible locations in disaster-hit areas. The new robot, which is 2.5 meters long and weighs 6kg, can be used for the inspection of collapsed buildings, according to Fumitoshi Matsuno, the robotics professor at Kyoto University leading the project. His team aims to put the device into practical use within two to three years, as reported by Nikkei Japan.

The snake, which is now patented technology, has been developed by UKAEA's RACE (Remote Applications in Challenging Environments) in a GPB2.7 million (USD3.4 million), a seven-year project. The snake will be delivered as part of EUROfusion's DEMO programme, which will be the successor to the ITER fusion device which is currently being built in southern France, as reported by World Nuclear News (WNN).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-schoolboy-set-on-fire-badly-burnt-his-only-crime-speaking-indigenous-language-496858">Mexican schoolboy set on fire, badly burnt - his 'only crime' - speaking indigenous language</a>

The device can climb up and down a ladder by altering its body shape. Using a laser sensor attached to the tip, it detects the distance between each rung, works out the ideal trajectory and contorts itself to clamber its way up. The device is controlled remotely by an operator who can see images from a camera mounted on the tip. Each joint does not need to be manipulated individually; the operator merely has to input which way the robot should proceed after selecting the appropriate shape.

UKAEA Lead Mechanical Design Engineer Tristan Tremethick said, "Ultrasonic sensors enable the snake to find the correct position, where it then clamps to the pipe and performs the weld from the inside. After the weld, the tool retracts and is removed from the pipe where it can be redeployed. Robots are a key part of our mission to deliver low carbon fusion energy, and we need to become skilled in controlling machines like this one remotely. That's because they will be used to maintain fusion energy power plants."

(with inputs from agencies)

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Researchers in Japan have developed an advanced snake-shaped robot that can climb ladders and wind its way up drainpipes, raising hopes that such devices will soon be used in surveying inaccessible locations in disaster-hit areas.

Researchers in Japan have developed an advanced snake-shaped robot that can climb ladders and wind its way up drainpipes, raising hopes that such devices will soon be used in surveying inaccessible locations in disaster-hit areas. The new robot, which is 2.5 meters long and weighs 6kg, can be used for the inspection of collapsed buildings, according to Fumitoshi Matsuno, the robotics professor at Kyoto University leading the project. His team aims to put the device into practical use within two to three years, as reported by Nikkei Japan. The snake, which is now patented technology, has been developed by UKAEA's RACE (Remote Applications in Challenging Environments) in a GPB2.7 million (USD3.4 million), a seven-year project. The snake will be delivered as part of EUROfusion's DEMO programme, which will be the successor to the ITER fusion device which is currently being built in southern France, as reported by World Nuclear News (WNN). Also Read: Mexican schoolboy set on fire, badly burnt - his 'only crime' - speaking indigenous language The device can climb up and down a ladder by altering its body shape. Using a laser sensor attached to the tip, it detects the distance between each rung, works out the ideal trajectory and contorts itself to clamber its way up. The device is controlled remotely by an operator who can see images from a camera mounted on the tip. Each joint does not need to be manipulated individually; the operator merely has to input which way the robot should proceed after selecting the appropriate shape. UKAEA Lead Mechanical Design Engineer Tristan Tremethick said, "Ultrasonic sensors enable the snake to find the correct position, where it then clamps to the pipe and performs the weld from the inside. After the weld, the tool retracts and is removed from the pipe where it can be redeployed. Robots are a key part of our mission to deliver low carbon fusion energy, and we need to become skilled in controlling machines like this one remotely. That's because they will be used to maintain fusion energy power plants." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan develops remotely operated snake-shaped robots for disaster site inspection

Gravity is something we take for granted here on Earth. It's an everyday phenomenon that doesn't dominate our daily calculus until we fall spread-eagled on the floor after a nasty slip. Astronauts may not 'fall' in the sense we do here on Earth but they are sure to sometimes wish there was a bit of gravity in space. For astronauts working aboard International Space Station (ISS) zero-gravity means anything that slips from hands goes in any direction it pleases. Besides, its hard to control stuff when you yourself have no weight and are floating inside the space station.

It may look fascinating to see astronauts floating around but zero-gravity has negative impact on human bodies. Prolonged effects include decrease in bone mass. Researchers and engineers from Japan's Kyoto University and Kajima Construction Co. are working on a system that will create 'artificial gravity' that will support human life in space.

Check out | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-joe-biden-reveals-first-image-from-james-webb-space-telescope-and-its-stunning-496510">James Webb telescope's first image: A never-before-seen view of the universe</a>

These experts are trying to harness Centrifugal Force to create artificial gravity. They are designing a craft that will have a component that will revolve while in space. Astronauts inside that component would experience Centrifugal Force which will keep them steady on surfaces like gravity does on Earth.

The architecture will be cylindrical, 100 metres wide and upto 400 metres tall (328 feet wide and 1,312 feet wide). In order to create artificial gravity, it will complete one revolution every 20 seconds. This will generate 1G of gravity which will be equivalent to that on Earth.

If Humankind is able to achieve creation of artificial gravity, it will open a new vista of space exploration. Currently, astronauts cannot live in space beyond a certain days as effect of zero gravity begins to kick-in. With artificial gravity, astronauts would be able to stay in space for longer periods. This would come in handy in case of space voyages that would require years of space travel.

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Gravity is something we take for granted here on Earth. It's an everyday phenomenon that doesn't dominate our daily calculus until we fall spread-eagled on the floor after a nasty slip.

Gravity is something we take for granted here on Earth. It's an everyday phenomenon that doesn't dominate our daily calculus until we fall spread-eagled on the floor after a nasty slip. Astronauts may not 'fall' in the sense we do here on Earth but they are sure to sometimes wish there was a bit of gravity in space. For astronauts working aboard International Space Station (ISS) zero-gravity means anything that slips from hands goes in any direction it pleases. Besides, its hard to control stuff when you yourself have no weight and are floating inside the space station. It may look fascinating to see astronauts floating around but zero-gravity has negative impact on human bodies. Prolonged effects include decrease in bone mass. Researchers and engineers from Japan's Kyoto University and Kajima Construction Co. are working on a system that will create 'artificial gravity' that will support human life in space. Check out | James Webb telescope's first image: A never-before-seen view of the universe These experts are trying to harness Centrifugal Force to create artificial gravity. They are designing a craft that will have a component that will revolve while in space. Astronauts inside that component would experience Centrifugal Force which will keep them steady on surfaces like gravity does on Earth. The architecture will be cylindrical, 100 metres wide and upto 400 metres tall (328 feet wide and 1,312 feet wide). In order to create artificial gravity, it will complete one revolution every 20 seconds. This will generate 1G of gravity which will be equivalent to that on Earth. If Humankind is able to achieve creation of artificial gravity, it will open a new vista of space exploration. Currently, astronauts cannot live in space beyond a certain days as effect of zero gravity begins to kick-in. With artificial gravity, astronauts would be able to stay in space for longer periods. This would come in handy in case of space voyages that would require years of space travel. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Japan: Research on for artificial gravity to aid astronauts in space

The mystery around Shinzo Abe's assassination is getting more intense. His killer Tetsuya Yamagami says Abe's links to a religious cult motivated his actions. Which cult is he talking about? How was Abe linked to it? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: Shinzo Abe's killer claims cult link behind murder

Mourners streamed into a temple in Tokyo to pay their respects to Japan's former PM Shinzo Abe on Monday, as his assassination overshadowed an election win for the ruling party he had dominated.

Japan: Mourners throng Shinzo Abe's wake as his party secures election win

Japan will vote in upper house elections on Sunday. The election will have implications for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's grip on the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP).

What's at stake in Japan's election

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN.

As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-ruling-coalition-party-achieves-significant-victory-following-shinzo-abes-death-496222">Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling&nbsp;coalition party achieves significant victory</a>

Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility."

Watch |&nbsp;Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing

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Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting.

Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was shot dead in the open on Friday (July 8) in Nara city, during a campaign that shocked the world. Since the local police commander acknowledged the issue, the Japanese national broadcaster, NHK, reported that the suspect first intended to use explosives, and there have been concerns expressed about the lack of security surrounding Abe at the time of the shooting. Tetsuya Yamagami, 41, was detained by police on Friday at the scene of the incident. Although he has not been legally charged, they still claim him to be the suspect, reported CNN. As per NHK, the suspect admitted to investigators that his initial plan involved deploying explosives to assassinate Abe during a gathering in Okayama, a prefecture that is three hours away from Nara. In conversation with CNN, Nara prefecture said that the suspect was seen by surveillance cameras leaving the Yamato-Saidaiji station in the city after boarding the train and travelling to the campaign. Also read | Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory Tomoaki Onizuka, the head of the police department, declared that he "can't deny there were problems" with Abe's security, and that he "take[s] responsibility" for the mishap. In his emotional statement, the head further added, "After the first report of the incident came ... it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement." "I feel the weight of my responsibility." Watch | Councillors Elections: Japan's ruling coalition makes strong election showing Since Abe’s passing, mourners have gathered and laid flowers at a temporary monument outside the Yamato-Saidaiji station in Nara, close to the location of the former leader’s murder. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' World leaders have extended condolences in response to Abe’s murder, expressing their outrage and sorrow. According to NHK, his widow Akie Abe will host the burial at a temple in Tokyo, with attendance restricted to family members and close friends of the former prime minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japanese police say suspect's initial plan was to deploy explosions to assassinate Shinzo Abe

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP.

At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on&nbsp; whiteboard.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-loss-shadows-polls-but-japan-says-it-not-halt-the-democratic-process-496055">Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process'</a>

Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent.

Watch |&nbsp;Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show

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Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-cracks-down-on-cyberbullying-the-crime-can-now-get-you-a-year-in-jail-496033">Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why</a>

However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion.

Japan’s ruling party, the Liberal Democratic Party, and its coalition partner, Komeito, won a significant victory in a parliamentary vote on Sunday, after the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, uncertain about the potential impact of his death on party cohesion. In elections for half of the seats in the upper house, both parties increased their combined share to 146 in the 248-seat chamber, far over the majority. This will allow Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to continue his tenure in office until the next scheduled election in 2025. Given the loss of Abe and the challenge of unifying his party without him, Kishida appreciated the victory but wasn’t grinning. He reiterated, "Party unity is more important than anything else," as reported by AP. At the party election headquarters, Kishida and top party MPs spent a moment of silence for Abe, 67, who was shot while campaigning and died after severe blood loss, before attaching victory ribbons and names of candidates who won their seats on whiteboard. Also read | Shinzo Abe assassination shadows polls, but Japan will 'not halt the democratic process' Shinzo Abe’s death might have resulted in sympathy votes. Sunday’s election turnout was 52 per cent, up almost 3 points from the previous year’s 48.8 per cent. Watch | Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show Kishida will focus on long-term initiatives like national security, his nebulous "new capitalism" economic programme and his party’s ardent desire to change the post war pacifist constitution. He also stated that Covid, Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and rising prices will be his top priorities. Kishida stated that, in addition to constitutional reform, he will continue to advocate for strengthening Japan’s national security. Also read | Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why However, Shinzo Abe’s death has already caused a significant change, making it doubtful that Japan’s existing security and diplomatic stance will shift. His death has caused a great deal of controversy because of his pragmatic policies and ultra-nationalist views, especially in China and the Republic of Korea. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Following Shinzo Abe’s death, Japan's ruling coalition party achieves significant victory

The man who killed Shinzo Abe, the former prime minister of Japan, was motivated by anger towards a religious cult that he blamed for the loss of his family’s fortune.

Shooter targeted former Japan PM Shinzo Abe over cult link

Japan's ruling coalition government has increased its majority in the upper house of the parliament by winning Sunday's house of councillors election that was largely overshadowed by the recent assassination of former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe.

Japan's house of councillors election: Big win for LPD-Komeito coalition

Voters in japan are casting their ballots in an upper house election. Ruling coalition is looking to keep control of the house. Will Shinzo Abe's assassination affect Japan's elections?

Voters cast their ballot in Japan polls | Ruling LDP set for strong election show

Japan is taking a tough stance against cyberbullying, the nation on Thursday (July 7th) implemented tough penalties for online insults. As per the revised penal code, the crime will now be punishable by a prison term of up to one year or a monetary penalty of up to $2,200 (¥300,000). Additionally, the time under the statute of limitations on online bullying has also been extended from one year to three years. Professional wrestler and reality TV star Hana Kimura's death in 2020 triggered calls for stricter regulation. Kimura committed suicide after being harassed online.&nbsp;Following a fervent campaign by Kimura's mother, the pre-existing law was amended to raise the penalties from the earlier 10,000 yen in fines or 30 days in jail.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-new-legislation-makes-online-insults-punishable-by-one-year-in-prison-488239">Japan's new legislation makes 'online insults' punishable by one year in prison</a>

As per AFP, Kimura faced a barrage of online abuse, with statements like "everyone will be happy if you're gone"

Yoshihisa Furukawa, the minister of justice, stated that the increased penalties are meant to make it crystal clear that cyberbullying is a crime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-judo-hits-crisis-point-as-bullied-burnt-out-children-quit-489782">Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit</a>

Speaking at a press conference this week, he said, "It's important that we work to eradicate spiteful insults that can sometimes push people to their death."

However, advocates for free speech and legal experts are against the change and have urged the government to make sure the stricter rule is not applied to target political criticism.

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The Japan Federation of Bar Associations has issued a warning that the legislation does not include any explicit provision protecting political speech.&nbsp;The group stated in a statement earlier this year that "the prison sentence is inappropriate as it will stifle legitimate argument and threatens freedom of expression."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Japan is taking a tough stance against cyberbullying, the nation on Thursday (July 7th) implemented tough penalties for online insults. As per the revised penal code, the crime will now be punishable by a prison term of up to one year or a monetary penalty of up to $2,200 (¥300,000).

Japan is taking a tough stance against cyberbullying, the nation on Thursday (July 7th) implemented tough penalties for online insults. As per the revised penal code, the crime will now be punishable by a prison term of up to one year or a monetary penalty of up to $2,200 (¥300,000). Additionally, the time under the statute of limitations on online bullying has also been extended from one year to three years. Professional wrestler and reality TV star Hana Kimura's death in 2020 triggered calls for stricter regulation. Kimura committed suicide after being harassed online. Following a fervent campaign by Kimura's mother, the pre-existing law was amended to raise the penalties from the earlier 10,000 yen in fines or 30 days in jail. Also read | Japan's new legislation makes 'online insults' punishable by one year in prison As per AFP, Kimura faced a barrage of online abuse, with statements like "everyone will be happy if you're gone" Yoshihisa Furukawa, the minister of justice, stated that the increased penalties are meant to make it crystal clear that cyberbullying is a crime. Also read | Japan judo hits crisis point as bullied, burnt-out children quit Speaking at a press conference this week, he said, "It's important that we work to eradicate spiteful insults that can sometimes push people to their death." However, advocates for free speech and legal experts are against the change and have urged the government to make sure the stricter rule is not applied to target political criticism. Watch | Roblox 'sex condos': Children's game unsuitable for kids? The Japan Federation of Bar Associations has issued a warning that the legislation does not include any explicit provision protecting political speech. The group stated in a statement earlier this year that "the prison sentence is inappropriate as it will stifle legitimate argument and threatens freedom of expression." (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan cracks down on cyberbullying, makes it a punishable offence, but experts aren't too happy. Here's why

Voters cast their ballot in Japan polls, ruling LDP set for strong election show

Shinzo Abe was born in Tokyo in 1954 into political royalty. His father was foreign minister and grandfather was PM. Abe officially entered politics in 1982. Watch this report!

Shinzo Abe assassinated: Japan's longest-serving & youngest post-war PM

Polling is underway in Japan for upper house elections, just two days after former prime minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated. Citizens have started queuing up in front of polling booths to cast their votes.

Upper house polls underway in Japan, voters queue up in polling booths

Voters in japan have casted their ballots in an upper house election. Ruling coalition is looking to keep control of the house. Will Shinzo Abe's assassination affect Japan's elections?

Polling for the upper house ends in Japan; The Ruling LDP set for a strong show

The State Department announced late on Saturday (July 9)&nbsp;that US Secretary Antony Blinken would be extending his travel to Asia to include a stop in Tokyo so that he could express his condolences to the Japanese for the death of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who has been assassinated. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen meanwhile decided to postpone her visit to the Port of Yokohama during, following the murder of Abe, an official announced. However, her bilateral meetings in Japan will still happen, as per the official.&nbsp;

The world’s longest-serving prime minister, Abe was shot on Friday (July 8), while campaigning in one of the safest nations in the world. In an effort to break some of his nation’s post-war pacifism, Abe had established close ties with the US, particularly in the area of defence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/undeniable-flaws-in-security-nara-police-chief-takes-responsibility-for-shinzo-abes-assassination-495900">Shinzo Abe's assassination: Local police say there were 'undeniable flaws' in security</a>

Prior to that, US President Joe Biden personally visited the Japanese ambassador’s residence in Washington to sign a condolence book.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A look back at Shinzo Abe's political legacy

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Blinken, after Group of 20 talks in Bali, said, "Prime Minister Abe really brought that partnership to new heights. The friendship between the Japanese and American people is likewise unshakable. He further added, "So we're standing with the people of Japan, with the prime minister's family, in the aftermath of a truly, truly appalling act of violence."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-killing-tetsuya-yamagami-initially-planned-to-attack-religious-leader-say-police-495852">Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police</a>

Yellen was supposed to visit the port, participate in a roundtable with business executives, tour the facilities and give a speech.&nbsp;During her visit to Asia, Yellen will be attending a gathering of the Group of 20 major economies in Indonesia and speaking with South Korean officials in an effort to rally support for a price ceiling on Russian oil, the Treasury Department said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The State Department announced late on Saturday (July 9) that US Secretary Antony Blinken would be extending his travel to Asia to include a stop in Tokyo so that he could express his condolences to the Japanese for the death of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who has been assassinated.

The State Department announced late on Saturday (July 9) that US Secretary Antony Blinken would be extending his travel to Asia to include a stop in Tokyo so that he could express his condolences to the Japanese for the death of former prime minister Shinzo Abe, who has been assassinated. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen meanwhile decided to postpone her visit to the Port of Yokohama during, following the murder of Abe, an official announced. However, her bilateral meetings in Japan will still happen, as per the official. The world’s longest-serving prime minister, Abe was shot on Friday (July 8), while campaigning in one of the safest nations in the world. In an effort to break some of his nation’s post-war pacifism, Abe had established close ties with the US, particularly in the area of defence. Also read | Shinzo Abe's assassination: Local police say there were 'undeniable flaws' in security Prior to that, US President Joe Biden personally visited the Japanese ambassador’s residence in Washington to sign a condolence book. Watch | Gravitas: A look back at Shinzo Abe's political legacy Blinken, after Group of 20 talks in Bali, said, "Prime Minister Abe really brought that partnership to new heights. The friendship between the Japanese and American people is likewise unshakable. He further added, "So we're standing with the people of Japan, with the prime minister's family, in the aftermath of a truly, truly appalling act of violence." Also read | Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police Yellen was supposed to visit the port, participate in a roundtable with business executives, tour the facilities and give a speech. During her visit to Asia, Yellen will be attending a gathering of the Group of 20 major economies in Indonesia and speaking with South Korean officials in an effort to rally support for a price ceiling on Russian oil, the Treasury Department said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US mourns for Shinzo Abe: Blinken to visit Japan to pay condolences, Yellen cancels speech in deference

Voters cast their ballots in Japan polls; LDP likely to get over 60 seats

Japan will still be going to the polls on Sunday despite former prime minister Shinzo Abe's assassination. The elections are for about half the seats in Japan's Upper House of Parliament.

Japan: Upper house elections to go on despite Shinzo Abe's murder

Shinzo Abe's untimely death reveals that he was a great politician. His assassination brought the world closer as tributes and condolences pour in from across the globe. But, what is it about him that made him stand out as a world leader.

Shinzo Abe's political legacy: How Abe laid the foundation for India-Japan ties

67-year-old Shinzo Abe was delivering a speech when he was shot. In Global leadership series, watch Japan's former PM Abe's last interview to an international channel.

Global Leadership Series: Shinzo Abe's last interview to an international channel

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Japan's longest-serving modern leader, Shinzo Abe, who was gunned down during a speech in support of a local candidate in the western city of Nara.

India mourns Shinzo Abe, Tricolour flies at half-mast

Despite the gruesome assassination of Japan's former PM Shinzo Abe, Japan is still planning to hold elections on Sunday. Abe was campaigning when a man shot him.

Japan to still hold elections on Sunday: 'Japan will not succumb to violence'

Tributes are pouring in from leaders across the world after the assassination of former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe. World leaders have expressed shock and grief over the brutal killing.

World leaders pay tribute to former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe

Speaking to Molly Gambhir, Japan's Deputy Cabinet Secretary for Public Affairs Koichiro Matsumoto said Shinzo Abe was extremely found of India and believed in the India-Japan partnership. Here is an excerpt from that conversation.

Gravitas: Exclusive: Former Shinzo Abe aide speaks to WION

In May, Former Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had told WION's Managing Editor Palki Sharma that the India-Japan relationship has the biggest potential. Here is an excerpt from that conversation.

Gravitas: Shinzo Abe's last interview to a global news network

Shinzo Abe was born into Japanese political royalty. He entered politics in 1982 and went on to scale unprecedented heights of power in Japan. He retired as the country's longest-serving premier. Molly Gambhir take a look at Abe's legacy.

Gravitas: A look back at Shinzo Abe's political legacy

Japan is considered one of the safest countries in the world. Shootings are rare, attacks on political leaders even rarer. Japan has extremely tight gun control laws. So, what explains the assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe?

Gravitas: Shinzo Abe assassination: A look at Japan's gun laws

The assassination of Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shocked the world. Japan's longest-serving modern leader and the country's best-known politician was killed on Friday (July 8) by a man when Abe was delivering a campaign speech in Nara.&nbsp;

The head of police of the area where the leader was assassinated admitted on Saturday that there were "undeniable" flaws in security for the former prime minister. He has pledged an investigation. The police chief said he "take[s] responsibility" for the security failure that resulted in Abe's demise.&nbsp;

Nara Prefectural Police Chief Tomoaki Onizuka told a news conference that Abe's security personnel followed Onizuka's approved plan.&nbsp;

He said, "After the first report of the incident came at 11:30 a.m., and the situation was revealed, it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement. I feel the weight of my responsibility."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shinzo-abes-killing-tetsuya-yamagami-initially-planned-to-attack-religious-leader-say-police-495852">Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police</a>&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Japanese mourn ex-PM Abe day after the horrific shooting

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Japan is known for its strict gun laws and it is understood that the security at local campaign events in Japan can be relatively relaxed. But considering Abe's profile, people around the world raised questions about whether measures to protect him were too lax.&nbsp;

Onizuka further said, "The urgent matter is for us to conduct a thorough investigation to clarify what happened."&nbsp;

His voice was shaking with emotion when he said, "As the regional police chief responsible for the safety and security of the region, I took necessary steps and built structures for security and guarding."&nbsp;

ALSO READ&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-xi-deeply-regrets-death-of-japans-shinzo-abe-495800">China's Xi 'deeply regrets' death of Japan's Shinzo Abe</a>&nbsp;

Suspect arrested

The officials arrested a 41-year-old man immediately after Abe was shot at close range. The authorities revealed that the suspect had used a homemade gun.&nbsp;

The suspect told investigators he had also visited other spots where Abe had made campaign appearances, including in the city of Okayama, more than 200 km (120 miles) from Nara, media reported.

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The assassination of Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shocked the world. Japan's longest-serving modern leader and the country's best-known politician was killed on Friday (July 8) by a man when Abe was delivering a campaign speech in Nara.

The assassination of Japan's former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shocked the world. Japan's longest-serving modern leader and the country's best-known politician was killed on Friday (July 8) by a man when Abe was delivering a campaign speech in Nara. The head of police of the area where the leader was assassinated admitted on Saturday that there were "undeniable" flaws in security for the former prime minister. He has pledged an investigation. The police chief said he "take[s] responsibility" for the security failure that resulted in Abe's demise. Nara Prefectural Police Chief Tomoaki Onizuka told a news conference that Abe's security personnel followed Onizuka's approved plan. He said, "After the first report of the incident came at 11:30 a.m., and the situation was revealed, it was the height of the guilt and regret I've felt in my 27 years in law enforcement. I feel the weight of my responsibility." ALSO READ | Shinzo Abe’s killing: Tetsuya Yamagami initially planned to attack religious leader, say Police WATCH | Japanese mourn ex-PM Abe day after the horrific shooting × Japan is known for its strict gun laws and it is understood that the security at local campaign events in Japan can be relatively relaxed. But considering Abe's profile, people around the world raised questions about whether measures to protect him were too lax. Onizuka further said, "The urgent matter is for us to conduct a thorough investigation to clarify what happened." His voice was shaking with emotion when he said, "As the regional police chief responsible for the safety and security of the region, I took necessary steps and built structures for security and guarding." ALSO READ | China's Xi 'deeply regrets' death of Japan's Shinzo Abe Suspect arrested The officials arrested a 41-year-old man immediately after Abe was shot at close range. The authorities revealed that the suspect had used a homemade gun. The suspect told investigators he had also visited other spots where Abe had made campaign appearances, including in the city of Okayama, more than 200 km (120 miles) from Nara, media reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Shinzo Abe's assassination: Local police say there were 'undeniable flaws' in security

Tributes are pouring in from leaders across the world after the assassination of former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe. Now, his remains were brought to Tokyo residence.

Shinbo Abe assassination: Remains brought to Tokyo residence

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