North Korea has launched a ballistic missile over Japan. It is believed by many in the west to the an intentional attempt to escalate the situation and attract attention from Tokyo and Washington, as reported by BBC.
The ballistic missile was launched in the morning on Tuesday, 4 October.
Between the launch and the missile’s entry into the Pacific Ocean it flew approximately 4 500 km, which is far enough for a missile of this type to reach Guam, for example.
Residents in the north regions of Japan, including Hokkaido woke up to the sound of sirens and notifications: «North Korea may have launched a missile. Please evacuate underground.»
Residents were also warned to be careful of any debris falling from the missile.
This was the first time since 2017 when North Korea launched a missile above Japan.
The missile launch took place in a time when Japan, U.S. and South Korea work together to enhance their defence in response to the growing threats coming from North Korea.
Last week the three countries took part in joint naval military exercises. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un considers this proof that his country’s enemies are preparing for war.
After the military exercises of 2017, North Korea responded by launching two missiles above Japan. A week later the country performed nuclear tests.
Japan’s PM Fumio Kishida called the missile launch «violent action». The country’s Minister of Defence Yasukazu Hamada said Japan will not exclude any options to enhance its defence, including «counter attack capabilities».
U.S. National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson called it «a dangerous and reckless decision» that was «destabilising» to the region.
The United Nations previously forbade North Korea to perform ballistic and nuclear arms tests, adding that launching missiles over other countries without prior warnings or discussions is against international law.