Speculation increases regarding the fate of North Koreans in Iran following U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. Analysts predict potential retaliation from Kim Jong-un if casualties occur. South Korea’s president cancels NATO plans and implements emergency measures amid rising tensions. North Korea is observed to be actively enhancing its nuclear capabilities, viewing these as essential to its survival.
Speculation swirls regarding the possibility of North Korean casualties in the recent U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. Analysts believe that if North Koreans were indeed involved in assisting Iran’s missile programs, there could be severe consequences. Bruce Bennett from the RAND Corporation noted that North Koreans remain in Iran for these projects and if they were affected by the bombings, Kim Jong-un could retaliate against the U.S.
In the wake of the bombings, North Korea has condemned the actions as violations of international law. However, Pyongyang has not admitted to its involvement in aiding Iran’s underground construction. Bennett suggests that admitting such cooperation could expose North Korea to retaliation, making Kim hesitant to acknowledge any losses among his experts.
Recently, Kim has been actively enhancing his nuclear capabilities, raising concerns that North Korean facilities could be next on the U.S. hit list. Bennett warned that as an extreme measure, North Korea could sell nuclear weapons to Iran, potentially allowing Iran to perform a nuclear test to challenge U.S. authority.
The fallout from these bombings has prompted reactions in South Korea as well. President Lee Jae Myung canceled his attendance at NATO’s upcoming meeting and has established an emergency response system to address the escalating tensions stemming from the strikes in the Middle East.
As North Korea reflects on the impacts of the U.S. strikes, Kim is likely assessing how the attack might affect his arsenal. With reports suggesting the U.S. used advanced bunker-buster bombs at Iran’s fortified Fordow site, the key issue for Kim is whether similar attacks could incapacitate his own nuclear capabilities.
Evans Revere, a former American diplomat, emphasized that while North Korea possesses numerous nuclear warheads, a U.S. strike would unlikely eliminate all of them before some could be launched. Revere stressed the difference between Iran and North Korea, stating that the latter is already an established nuclear power, not just a potential threat.
In addition, Revere pointed out that North Korea has been strategically advancing its nuclear arsenal, reinforcing facilities and preparing its military for potential combat use of these weapons. The focus on nuclear arms demonstrates the regime’s belief that these capabilities are crucial for their survival.
The recent U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities have raised questions about the potential for North Korean casualties among those assisting in Iran’s missile programs. Analysts suggest that Kim Jong-un may be considering severe responses should this be the case. Amid escalating tensions, South Korea is enhancing its emergency response structure. North Korea continues to fortify its nuclear capabilities, indicating that its regime perceives these weapons as vital to its national security.
Original Source: www.nysun.com
