North Korea Ramps Up Missile Testing Amid Heightened Tensions

North Korea has continued its spate of ballistic missile launches, testing a record number of missiles in 2022 as part of its ongoing weapons development program. The latest tests have included intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) capable of reaching the United States, as well as short-range missiles that could target South Korea and Japan. The escalation in missile activity has prompted international condemnation and renewed concerns about the risk of military conflict on the Korean Peninsula. The United States and its regional allies have responded with joint military exercises and attempts to strengthen their missile defense systems. However, efforts to engage North Korea in diplomatic negotiations have largely stalled, leaving the situation increasingly volatile and raising the specter of a potential miscalculation or escalation.