North Korea has expressed strong condemnation of the United States over its recent military strike on Iran, accusing Washington of violating international law and infringing on state sovereignty. The statement comes amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East and suggests a strategic pivot in Pyongyang’s rhetoric, reflecting a mix of surprise and concern regarding its own nuclear ambitions.
In a statement published on Monday by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), a spokesperson from North Korea’s Foreign Ministry criticized the U.S. for what it described as a severe violation of the UN Charter regarding sovereignty and the principles of noninterference in the internal affairs of sovereign nations. The spokesperson emphasized that the U.S. military action “violently trampled down the territorial integrity and security interests of a sovereign state.”
Despite this harsh criticism, the tone of the statement marked a noticeable shift from North Korea’s typical rhetoric. Rather than overtly acknowledging the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities, the regime called for a collective response from the international community to decry the actions of the United States. Analysts suggest that the tempered response may indicate the regime’s management of its public messaging amidst a regional crisis that closely relates to its own perceived vulnerabilities.
The North Korean spokesperson also attributed the broader regional conflicts to “the reckless valor of Israel,” which has sought to promote its unilateral interests through ongoing military operations and territorial expansion. Furthermore, the statement criticized the Western-style free order as having tolerated and encouraged Israel’s actions, leading to heightened tensions in the Middle East that negatively impact global security.
To conclude, North Korea’s Foreign Ministry urged the international community to unite in censure against the confrontational acts of both the United States and Israel. The regime’s current approach appears to be calculated and restrained, possibly signaling an intent to avoid further escalation while reaffirming ideological alliances with nations such as Iran and Russia.
In the days leading up to this statement, North Korean media has been closely following the developments in the Israel-Iran conflict, relaying information through quotes attributed to officials from allied nations. Instead of directly commenting on the situation, outlets like the Rodong Sinmun have cited perspectives from Russia, Iran, and Lebanon, indicating a cautious approach to the ongoing crisis.
Experts believe that while North Korea remains critical of Israel, it is presently maintaining a low-profile response, likely awaiting opportunities to evaluate the geopolitical implications of the U.S. strike. A formal assessment from Pyongyang may be forthcoming, especially during the anticipated Workers’ Party plenary meeting later this month.
In the aftermath of the U.S. military strike on Iran, some analysts suggest that North Korea may leverage the incident to reinforce its justification for its own nuclear buildup. Professor Lim Eul-chul from Kyungnam University’s Institute for Far Eastern Studies remarks that North Korea could frame the U.S. attack as validating its longstanding commitment to regime security and the development of nuclear weapons.
Additionally, North Korea might seek to deepen military ties within an anti-Western bloc led by China and Russia, potentially adopting a foreign policy framework that becomes increasingly skeptical of inter-Korean dialogue and negotiations with Washington. The strike could catalyze a strengthening of military cooperation between Pyongyang and Moscow, as both nations may find common ground in their opposition to U.S. actions in the region.
In fact, the treaty signed between North Korea and Russia in June 2024, which established a comprehensive strategic partnership, may serve as a foundation for expanding mutual economic and military collaboration in the wake of this incident.
Amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine and North Korea’s alignment with Russia, Pyongyang is now viewed as part of a network of ‘friendly nations.’ Russian President Vladimir Putin’s remarks at a recent international economic forum further emphasize this notion, suggesting intentions to develop military-technical cooperation with allied countries.
Professor Lim noted that the advanced military technologies employed by Israel during its strike on Iran underscore the importance of upgrading North Korea’s air defense systems. He believes that North Korea will likely intensify efforts to enhance its air defense capabilities, possibly seeking technological and personnel support primarily from Russia.
This evolving situation presents a complex backdrop for North Korea’s future military strategy and international posture, as it navigates the potential repercussions of the U.S.-Iran conflict.
image source from：koreajoongangdaily
