North Korea launched a scathing attack on Israel Thursday, defending Iran’s controversial nuclear ambitions while accusing Israel of “state-sponsored terrorism” and labeling it a “cancer-like entity.” Pyongyang’s statement followed Israel’s precision strike against Iranian nuclear sites and military leadership, a response to intelligence that Tehran may be preparing atomic weapons.
On June 13, Israel executed “Operation Rising Lion,” targeting high-ranking Iranian military leaders and nuclear facilities. The mission followed a critical International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolution condemning Iran for secretive, excessive uranium enrichment far beyond civilian energy needs. Hours later, Israel took direct action, reportedly eliminating Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Major General Hossein Salami and several nuclear scientists.
North Korea responded with a statement defending Iran’s actions as a “legitimate sovereign right” and accused Israel of violating international law. Pyongyang ignored Iran’s retaliatory missile strikes that killed at least 24 civilians in Israel, focusing instead on attacking Israel for defending itself.
North Korea called Israel’s defensive measures “a hideous act of aggression” and an “unpardonable crime against humanity,” while asserting that Israel is responsible for the breakdown of peace in the Middle East. The regime further claimed that the U.S. and Western allies are complicit, portraying them as the “behind-the-scene forces” fueling instability.
Despite playing no direct role in the Middle East conflict, North Korea continues to forge alliances with Iran and its global partners, including Russia and China. In April 2024, North Korea sent an economic delegation to Iran, highlighting ongoing bilateral ties. Following the October 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel, evidence emerged that Hamas used North Korean weapons, prompting legal action from victims against both Iran and North Korea.
Iran’s five rounds of negotiations with the U.S. in 2025 failed, as Tehran refused to limit its uranium enrichment. The IAEA has warned that Iran is violating nuclear norms and acting in secrecy. North Korea, under heavy sanctions for its own nuclear violations, has conducted six known nuclear tests and reportedly has material for up to 90 warheads.
The IAEA has also condemned North Korea’s nuclear program, citing a total lack of transparency and the absence of safety or security oversight. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi warned in April that North Korea’s unchecked nuclear arsenal poses a global risk.
Pyongyang has blocked IAEA inspectors since 2009, underscoring its defiance of international norms.
