New Delhi: A fierce war is currently raging in the Middle East, where the US-Israel versus Iran conflict is taking on different hues. Following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, there is instability in Arab countries. Meanwhile, Iran has taken a diplomatic decision, surprising everyone by stating that it will not attack neighboring countries.
On the other hand, the US may now launch a front against the Korean Peninsula. This is expected to escalate tensions between the US and North Korea. The United States began a large-scale military exercise, “Freedom Shield,” with South Korea on Monday, in which thousands of troops will participate.
These exercises are reportedly scheduled to begin today and continue until March 19th. However, the US Forces Korea (USFK) has not confirmed the number of US troops.
Suspense Remains
Amidst tensions in the Middle East, this joint military exercise between the US and South Korea comes at a time when South Korean media is speculating that Washington is shifting some military resources from South Korea to use in the fight against Iran.
US Forces Korea said last week that it would not comment on specific movements of military assets for security reasons. South Korean officials also declined to comment on reports that some US Patriot anti-missile systems and other equipment were being sent to the Middle East.
North Korea Expresses Dissatisfaction
On the other hand, North Korea has consistently objected to the Freedom Shield exercises. North Korea often views these exercises as an attack, leading to tensions.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reiterated his tough stance toward Seoul during a summit in Pyongyang last month, but kept the door open for dialogue with Washington. He has demanded that America abandon the prerequisite of nuclear disarmament.
All seems to be going wrong between the US and North Korea for quite some time. There are fears that a deep chasm of internal discord is brewing.
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