North Korea test-fires advanced ICBM, heightening global tensions
North Korea conducted its third test of a solid-fuel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) on Monday, capable of reaching the United States.
The launch adds to a series of weapons tests this year, prompting swift international condemnation.
South Korea reported that the solid-fuel ICBM offers increased transportability and faster deployment compared to liquid-fuel variants.
Analysts interpret the launches in April, July, and the recent one as consistent efforts by North Korea to enhance its missile technology.
While the North had previously named the missiles “Hwasong-18,” no immediate comment followed Monday’s launch.
The United States, South Korea, and Japan condemned the missile test, citing violations of United Nations Security Council resolutions and heightening insecurity on the Korean peninsula.
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol ordered an “immediate and overwhelming” countermeasure and called for joint responses with the United States and Japan.
Japan’s defense ministry estimated the ICBM’s potential range to exceed 15,000 kilometers, covering the entire United States.
Chinese officials, historically allied with North Korea, provided no direct response to the launches. Instead, China emphasized the deep trust between the two nations, stating their unwavering support.
The United Nations Security Council, in numerous resolutions, has urged North Korea to halt its nuclear and ballistic missile programs. However, Pyongyang, declaring itself an “irreversible” nuclear power last year, continues to defy these calls, viewing its nuclear program as vital for survival.
Experts suggest that the Hwasong-18, with its solid-fuel design, represents a significant asset for North Korea, despite technical challenges that need addressing.
Professor Park Won-gon notes the immediate firing capability from a mobile launcher, marking it as a practical system for striking the U.S. mainland.
Despite North Korea’s assertions of irreversible nuclear power, analysts like Go Myong-hyun argue that technical aspects, including re-entry and multiple warhead technology, are yet to be perfected.
The missile launches follow heightened tensions between the U.S.-South Korea alliance and North Korea.
Recent discussions on nuclear deterrence escalated as the allies warned of dire consequences for any nuclear attack. North Korea, in response, criticized plans for an expanded joint military exercise, interpreting it as a declaration of nuclear confrontation.
The situation worsened with North Korea’s launch of a military spy satellite last month, damaging inter-Korean ties and leading to increased security measures along the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).
The international community watches closely as tensions continue to escalate in the Korean peninsula.
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