Emperor Hirohito — "It is unbearable for me to witness the further destruction of my people."

"If the war were to begin while a member of the imperial house was prime minister, the imperial house would have to carry the responsibility and he was opposed to this."

"I made efforts to swallow tears and to protect the species of the Japanese nation."

"The atomic bombs were a tragic event, but they ultimately led to the end of the war."

"I deeply regret that my country's actions caused such immense suffering to the peoples of the world."

"The enemy, moreover, has begun to employ a new most cruel bomb, the power of which to do damage is, indeed, incalculable, taking the toll of many innocent lives."