Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General for peacebuilding and political affairs, provided an update to ambassadors two days after the DPRK, also known as North Korea, launched a new type of intermediate-range hypersonic ballistic missile (IRBM) equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle.
Referring to an official statement from Pyongyang, he mentioned that the missile traveled at 12 times the speed of sound and followed its planned flight path before landing in the sea.
‘Serious military strike’
Despite the DPRK asserting that the launch did not pose a threat to neighboring countries, no airspace or maritime safety notifications were issued, he noted.
Quoting from the document, Mr. Khiari reported that the missile system could potentially deliver a significant military blow to an adversary by overcoming defensive barriers effectively.
He explained that hypersonic glide vehicles travel at least five times the speed of sound and execute evasive maneuvers, making defense against the weapon much more challenging.
Continued missile launches
Expressing serious concern on behalf of the UN, Mr. Khiari pointed out that this marked the fourth IRBM launch by the DPRK in 2024.
During the same period, there were launches of an intercontinental ballistic missile, multiple short-range ballistic missiles, and an attempted military reconnaissance satellite launch.
He continued, stating that the showcasing of an undisclosed enrichment facility in Kangson, ongoing activities at the light water reactor in Yongbyon, and the consistent missile launches using ballistic missile technology all violate relevant Security Council resolutions.
Five-year plan
Mr. Khiari informed the Council that the DPRK has been actively pursuing new military capabilities as per its ongoing five-year military development plan, which is approaching its final year.
The plan includes the development of tactical nuclear weapons, “super-large” nuclear warheads, various intermediate and long-range ballistic missile capabilities, military reconnaissance satellites, and a nuclear submarine, among other objectives.
The authorities have stressed that 2025 should see the successful completion of the plan.
Undermining nuclear disarmament
Mr. Khiari remarked, “The DPRK’s continued pursuit of its nuclear and ballistic missile programs undermines the global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime.”
He added, “It also heightens tensions and further isolates the DPRK from the international community.”
He emphasized the UN’s call for the country to fully comply with its international obligations.
Ease tensions, promote diplomacy
As global peace and security face increasing challenges in 2025, it is essential to reduce tensions on the Korean Peninsula, Mr. Khiari stressed.
He highlighted, “Diplomatic engagement is the only path towards lasting peace and the complete and verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. We welcome offers for dialogue with the DPRK without preconditions.”
Mr. Khiari also urged the Council to pay attention to the humanitarian situation in the DPRK.
He reiterated the call for Pyongyang to expedite the return of the UN Country Team and for the international community to enhance support for the population and promote sustainable development.
