North Korea launches short-range missiles, sparking concern in South Korea and Japan; US says no immediate threat but calls it ‘destabilizing’.
In a concerning development, North Korea has test-launched several short-range ballistic missiles, prompting swift responses from neighboring South Korea and Japan.
According to South Korea’s military, the launches occurred around 7:30 a.m. local time on Tuesday, with the missiles fired from North Korea’s west coast toward the northeast.
The missiles were estimated to have flown approximately 250 miles, reaching a maximum altitude of about 62 miles.
While the U.S. military has stated that the event does not pose an immediate threat to its personnel, territory, or allies, the launches have been deemed “destabilizing acts” by the Indo-Pacific Command.
The launches come just days after a trilateral military exercise involving the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, which North Korea had strongly criticized.
Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, has justified the country’s nuclear strategy, stating that the recent military exercises prove the “legitimacy and urgency” of North Korea’s efforts to strengthen its nuclear capabilities.
Japan’s Ministry of Defense has vowed to remain vigilant and continue monitoring the situation closely, while South Korea’s military has strengthened its surveillance and vigilance, sharing information with U.S. and Japanese authorities.
This latest round of missile tests by North Korea serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions and security concerns in the region.
As the international community closely follows these developments, the focus remains on maintaining stability and finding diplomatic solutions to address North Korea’s nuclear ambitions.
