Prime Minister Shinzo Abe received a request from the Council for Promotion of Dezoning and Reutilization of Military Land in Okinawa at the Prime Minister's Office.
After receiving the request, the Prime Minister said,

"The accident of the U.S. Forces' helicopter HH-60 is very regrettable. Following the accident, we immediately expressed to the U.S. our feelings of regret over the occurrence of this accident, and strongly wish for the U.S. to uncover the cause of the accident, promptly share information and prevent a recurrence.
In addition, we requested the suspension for the time being of flight operations of the helicopter model involved in the crash. With regard to the trainings of the U.S. Forces in Japan, ensuring the safety of the Okinawan people will remain a top priority. Fully bearing in mind the concerns of the local people, we will urge the U.S. to give utmost consideration to safety and uncover the cause of the accident, among other steps."