Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a brief press conference [2:00am ET] after arriving back in his office and recalling all cabinet members following the assassination attempt upon the life of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

According to Kishida, the condition of Shinzo Abe is still grave and serious, and all medical personnel are still working to save his life.

(NHK) – Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio told reporters that former prime minister Abe Shinzo is in serious condition after he was attacked in Nara City.

Kishida said, “It is such a despicable act that took place during an election period, which is the foundation of democracy. It is totally unacceptable. I condemn the act in the strongest possible terms.” Kishida added that it is important for the government to prepare to take all necessary measures to deal with any possible situation. WATCH:

The assassin of Shinzo Abe has been identified as 41-year-old Yamagami Tetsuya, who used a homemade black powder shotgun.  Tetsuya was a former member of the maritime defense forces where he served for three years.  According to Japanese media:

…”The 41-year-old suspect lives in Nara city where the shooting took place. Defense sources say the suspect worked for the Maritime Self Defense Force for three years until around 2005.  Police say the suspect told investigators that he was dissatisfied with the former prime minister and intended to kill him.”

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