South Korea, Japan Warn North Korea on Missiles
Probably more empty threats, verbal posturing and nothing more. It would really surprise me to see the Japanese shoot down North Korea’s missile launch in the ensuing weeks. Link here.
SEOUL (Reuters) – Japan said on Friday it could shoot down any threatening object falling toward its territory, after North Korea said a planned rocket launch would send it across Japanese territory.
North Korea has given notice to global agencies that it plans to launch a satellite between April 4 and 8, presenting a challenge to new U.S. President Barack Obama and allies who see it as a disguised missile test.
“Under our law, we can intercept any object if it is falling toward Japan, including any attacks on Japan, for our safety,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Takeo Kawamura told a news conference.
South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement any such launch would be in violation of Security Council Resolution 1718.
“If North Korea goes ahead with the launch, we believe there will be discussions and a response by the Security Council on the violation of the resolution.”
