Statement by the Prime Minister on the Assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin

November 5, 1995

The shocking news of the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin has filled me with deep sorrow.
Following his official visit to Japan in December last year, I met Prime Minister Rabin again in September this year during my visit to Israel. I also had a chance to talk with him very recently at the Commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations held in New York. Hence I feel a sense of personal friendship and respect.
Mr. Rabin's contribution to peace in the Middle East is well-known, and his death is truly a great blow to the attainment of peace in that region.
I sincerely hope that his strong will for peace will be taken over by the Israeli people. I wish to express my deep condolences on this sad occasion.