North Korea has conducted another provocative missile test, firing multiple ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan. The launch comes amid heightened tensions with South Korea and the wider international community.
The South Korean military confirmed the missiles were fired from North Korea's eastern coast, travelling approximately 300 kilometres before splashing down in international waters. This marks Pyongyang's latest show of military strength, defying global calls for denuclearisation.
Escalating Regional Tensions
The missile tests follow weeks of increasingly hostile rhetoric from Pyongyang, with leader Kim Jong Un recently describing South Korea as North Korea's "principal enemy". Analysts suggest these launches may be timed to influence upcoming elections in South Korea.
Japanese officials strongly condemned the tests, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida calling them "a threat to regional peace and security". The United States has also expressed concern, reaffirming its commitment to defend allies in the region.
International Response
The United Nations Security Council is expected to discuss the latest provocations, though previous sanctions have failed to curb North Korea's weapons programme. Experts warn that Pyongyang may be preparing for more significant tests in coming months.
South Korea's military remains on high alert, with defence officials stating they are closely monitoring all North Korean military activities. The country has recently strengthened its security cooperation with both the United States and Japan in response to Pyongyang's growing threats.
