Tension Rises in Korea

Tension is rising on the Korean peninsula. Following recent North Korean threats toward South Korea and the United States, Washington has activated its missile defenses in the region. But what is really preventing peace between the Koreas?

On Wednesday, South Korea’s foreign ministry said the prospect of a North Korean missile launch is “considerable” and could happen at any time. Historically, North Korea seeks to draw the world’s attention with dramatic displays of military power on April 15, marking the birthday of its founder.

North Korean officials have not announced plans to launch a missile, but have told foreign diplomats in Pyongyang that they will not be able to guarantee their safety after April 10. Officials also have urged tourists in South Korea to take cover, warning that a nuclear war may be imminent.

Japan, too, is deeply concerned. The Japanese government said on Wednesday that it was on high alert and has deployed missile interceptors in key locations around Tokyo.

U.S. military officials have announced that American defenses are capable of intercepting a North Korean ballistic missile. The U.S. military has a Patriot missile air defense system deployed 50 miles from the North Korean border at the Osan Air Base. It has also moved two of the Navy’s missile-defense ships closer to the Korean peninsula, and another land-based system is being deployed to the Pacific territory of Guam.

The Chinese foreign ministry urged for “calm and restraint” on the Korean peninsula. But beyond words, China has done little to help end the conflict.

Beijing has been North Korea’s most consistent ally since 1950. The isolated, rogue state receives much of its oil, consumer goods, food and military support from China. With this dependency, China could immediately stop North Korea. But China is literally keeping North Korea alive for a very specific reason: to serve its own ambitions, regionally and globally.

North Korea’s continued provocations reveal that China is not an American ally, but an enemy.

For a more detailed and prophetic explanation on this issue, read “Why China Won’t Stop North Korea.”