Israel and Iran find themselves at odds, fueled by Tel Aviv's initiation. According to them, Tehran teetered on the brink of nuclear capability, necessitating intervention. On the other hand, North Korea continually forges nuclear warheads without facing military threats or deterrents. No nation has dared challenge North Korea, allowing it to expand its arsenal unrestrained. This geopolitical puzzle involves deep layers of international politics. North Korea is not as isolated as it seems, with support quietly coming from several countries.
When Did North Korea Start Its Nuclear Ambitions?
The journey of nuclear development in Korea began under a veil of secrecy. With aid from the Soviet Union (now Russia) in the 1960s, they began acquiring nuclear technology under the guise of energy production. By the 1980s, the Yongbyon gas-graphite reactor was constructed. During this period, North Korea signed the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to create international ambiguity. Despite this, inspections were restricted, preventing international scrutiny.
In 2003, North Korea withdrew from the NPT, nearing weapon assembly. Three years later, it conducted its first nuclear test, revealing the extent of its continuous clandestine operations.
Source: aajtak
Attempts to Stop North Korea
During the 1990s, the US became aware of Korea's activities. Despite negotiations where Korea pledged to shut down the Yongbyon reactor in exchange for energy aid, mistrust loomed. Each accused the other of breaking promises. Upon officially declaring nuclear development, an international coalition of six nations pressured North Korea. Although there were temporary reactor shutdowns, operations resumed soon after.
By 2010, North Korea disengaged from talks, resuming nuclear testing. United Nations sanctions had minimal impact, as North Korea maintained resilience with support from Russia and China.
Why Doesn't the West Attack North Korea?
It's arguably too late. North Korea is believed to possess 30 to 50 nuclear weapons and long-range missiles capable of reaching distant countries. Any assault by the US or its allies risks severe retaliation. The deterrence effect discourages attacks due to potential costs to the aggressor.
The proximity of North Korea to South Korea is another factor, with Seoul just kilometers away. War could lead to catastrophic losses, prompting US and allies to reserve military action as a last resort.
Source: aajtak
Why Such Aggression Towards Iran?
Turning to Iran: Tehran has embarked on nuclear preparedness, yet it hasn't achieved an arsenal. Without a fully-fledged nuclear stockpile, Iran remains vulnerable to pressure and sanctions unlike North Korea, which is now in a containment strategy phase to prevent provocation.
Initially, nations that acquired nuclear capabilities without scrutiny have influenced the global stage. New aspirants faced immediate bans and military threats. However, North Korea’s circumstances benefitted from Russian and Chinese aid, with Beijing frequently vetoing or diluting harsh UNSC resolutions.
Why Washington Avoids Direct Confrontation with Pyongyang
North Korea's strategies defy logic, preferring bold threats over dialogues. Should Kim Jong-un perceive a threat to his regime, the ramifications could include missile, biochemical, or nuclear attacks. Although diplomatic attempts were made during Trump's administration, North Korea remained defiant. Consequently, Washington adopted a 'no provocation' policy concerning Pyongyang.
