North Korea Backs Iran's New Leader, Condemns US-Israel 'Attack'
Pyongyang supports Iran's leadership change and slams US-Israeli actions.
Top Summary
- What happened: North Korea voiced support for Mojtaba Khamenei's appointment as Iran's Supreme Leader and condemned the US and Israel's attack on Iran.
- Why it matters: This highlights deepening ties between North Korea and Iran, while escalating tensions with the US and its allies.
- What changes for people: Indicates potential for increased instability in the Middle East and further isolation of North Korea.
- Who is affected: Iran, North Korea, the United States, Israel, and potentially other nations in the region.
Pyongyang's Endorsement
North Korea has officially recognized Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran's new Supreme Leader, following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israeli attack on February 28, 2026.
The announcement was made by a spokesperson from North Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
"Regarding the recent official announcement that the Iranian Assembly of Experts has elected a new leader of the Islamic Revolution, we respect the right and choice of the Iranian people to elect their Supreme Leader,"
stated the ministry spokesperson.
Condemnation of US and Israel
North Korea strongly condemned the actions of the United States and Israel, labeling their attack on Iran as an "unlawful military attack".
"We express grave concern and strongly condemn the aggression of the United States and Israel, which, by launching an unlawful military attack against Iran, are undermining the foundations of regional peace and security and increasing instability in the international landscape,"
said the spokesperson.
Pyongyang considers the attack a violation of Iran's territorial integrity and an assault on its political system.
North Korea's Military Posture
Amidst these developments, Kim Jong Un oversaw another test-firing of strategic cruise missiles from the new naval destroyer, Choe Hyon.
KCNA reported that Kim emphasized the importance of "maintaining and expanding a powerful and reliable nuclear war deterrent".
This was the second missile test from the Choe Hyon overseen by Kim, who previously praised his country for "arming the Navy with nuclear weapons".
US-North Korea Relations
Despite past tensions, the Trump administration recently expressed interest in resuming high-level talks with North Korea.
Kim suggested that the two nations could potentially "get along" if Washington accepts North Korea's status as a nuclear power.
What to Watch Next
The international community will be closely monitoring potential retaliatory actions from Iran, as well as any further military developments from North Korea. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions between all parties involved are crucial in preventing further conflict.