In an effort to scare the United States and its allies, North Korea launched a nuclear attack simulation through the use of two long-range cruise missiles that were equipped with mock nuclear warheads. The drill was successfully carried out with reports of the launch being aimed towards the west sea of the Korean Peninsula. While North Korea often acts without reason, this simulation was in response to the United States and South Korea’s annual military drills, which often anger the Northern regime. North Korea’s obsession with being provoked will ultimately escalate tensions as they seek an audience for their military outburst.
North Korea has always been an unpredictable nuclear superpower, in the sense that their main source of international recognition stems from their nuclear capability. This has given the nation a unique ability to “bargain” on the world stage despite its poor economy and severe humanitarian crisis. The launch of these simulations highlights North Korea’s capability and willingness to carry out a nuclear conflict if provoked.
North Korean Hwasong 17 ICBM. Image Source: North Korean Government
The preparation for an all-out war with South Korea has been a main goal of their Northern counterpart. Kim Jong Un’s obsession with a potential conflict to re-spark the battle over the peninsula has left the international community concerned about a balance between nuclear non-proliferation and defense. While it is difficult to strong-arm the nuclear North Korea, the international community has to draw its boundaries and speak out against the regime, uncertain if they may spark that war. This balance is a difficult one to manage and creates further tensions with actions such as the simulation.
However, this is not new for North Korea, as it enjoys displaying its military capabilities. These actions keep their nation relevant, blocked off from most of the world geo-politically and economically, it benefits them to maintain a constant fear of nuclear war on the table with global powers such as the United States. From the outside, this is reckless behavior from an unprepared regime leader who would rather spend money on weapons than feed his own people. From the inside, this is a tactical political maneuver to ensure the small nations remain relevant on such a large international playing field.
Nevertheless, this simulated nuclear strike is not uncommon nor unprecedented by North Korea. It is another display of power in a long line of actions to show the world they are dangerous despite their shortcomings. While the nation might be weak in other factors, the world should be cautioned by their military might, and even more their willingness to reignite conflict. The United States, along with its allies, must find diplomatic solutions to resolve this ongoing dispute with North Korea, as the country has shown it can match the ultimate force of military defense worldwide.
Author: Gabriel McGaw
