Pyongyang

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has defended his country’s nuclear weapons programme, citing the ongoing conflict involving Iran as evidence of the need for strong military deterrence, according to state media.

As reported by Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim told the Supreme People’s Assembly that a nation’s security and ultimate success depend on possessing overwhelming military strength. He accused the United States of engaging in “invasions” and “terrorism” globally, referring to its current hostilities with Iran, though he did not name US President Donald Trump directly.

Kim emphasised that North Korea would continue to strengthen its “defensive nuclear deterrent” and maintain readiness for a swift and precise response to any perceived threats. He reiterated Pyongyang’s commitment to reinforcing its position as a nuclear-armed state and warned of firm retaliation against any provocation.

In a sharp escalation of rhetoric, Kim also labelled South Korea as the country’s “most hostile nation,” signalling a further deterioration in inter-Korean relations. He stated that Pyongyang would ignore Seoul and respond harshly to any actions it considers provocative.

Meanwhile, Trump earlier suggested that negotiations with Iran were underway and expressed optimism about ending the conflict, claiming significant damage had already been inflicted on Iranian military capabilities.

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However, Iran has denied engaging in talks with the US, maintaining that peace would only be possible if US and Israeli military actions cease. With tensions continuing and retaliatory strikes intensifying, the situation in West Asia remains volatile.