North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles

By Alimat Aliyeva

North Korea has launched several short-range ballistic missiles into the eastern waters, Azernews reports.

The South Korean Armed Forces Headquarters issued a statement confirming the missile launch, which occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. local time. The General Staff of South Korea reported that North Korea had notified both the United States and Japan about the missile test.

Japan's Coast Guard confirmed that the missile, believed to be ballistic, fell into the sea outside the country's exclusive economic zone, posing no direct threat to Japanese territory.

It is notable that this missile launch coincides with heightened tensions in the region, especially on the eve of the U.S. presidential election. On October 31, North Korea had previously tested a new intercontinental ballistic missile, the Hwasong-19. In response to this, South Korea, the United States, and Japan conducted joint military drills south of the Korean Peninsula, showcasing their continued military cooperation in the face of North Korea's provocative actions.

This recent missile launch adds to a growing pattern of North Korea's missile tests this year, which have been seen as a response to increased military presence in the region and a demonstration of its growing missile capabilities. The ongoing tensions are closely watched by international analysts, as they could influence not only regional security dynamics but also U.S. foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific region leading up to the elections.