Ballistic Strike in Northern Australia

Previous attacks on Yeonpyeong bear striking similarities to the current strike on Australia

25 ballistic missiles were launched at long range to the Northern coast of Australia by North Korea.  Not only is this the first act of war committed by North Korea outside the Korean peninsula, but it is also an act of aggression against a Western Nation and former colony.  There is no indication of the attack was nuclear, but information is limited at this time and speculation runs rampant. 

Australia is taking all precautions possible, including the assumption that North Korea may have used nuclear force and the preparation for potential future attacks.  Harvey Henley, assistant to the Australian defense minister, claims the attack was made for political ideals, yet North Korea’s official statement is still awaited.  He says, “We see no reason why missiles targeted Northern Australia.”

The US ambassador to Australia, Richard Masterson, says, “The U.S. plans to send as many aid workers as possible to Australia, and we post for an emergency meeting of the Security Council to discuss the political instability in North Korea.”  The U.S. plans to announce their official course of action shortly.

This attack was at the longest range available to North Korean artillery.  It comes on the heels of attacks on South Korea, which also has strong allies with the western world.  This attack bears many similarities to the recent bombardment of Yeonpyeong Island in South Korean territory.  This prior attack led to the deaths of many innocent South Koreans, yet there was no response made by South Korean government.

When contacted, the Chinese Minister of Foreign affairs, Liu Xiaobao, responded “China is reconsidering their unconditional support of North Korea.”  According to Xiaobao, China had no indication of an attack planned.  When asked about whether China would support North Korea in the event of western military force, Xiaobao responds, “No we cannot.  We deplore the attack and had no part in it.”

Whether this remains merely a flexing of power from the politically turbulent North Korea, or signs of an impending military campaign orchestrated by North Korea remains to be seen.  However, an Australian retaliation is a distinct possibility. 

Executing a ballistic strike without official declaration of war violates U.N. rulings, and how the international community will deal with this offense remains to be seen.  No matter what the response, this tragedy strikes at the heart of all people everywhere.