North Korea launched a long-range missile that flew for over an hour before landing in the sea near Japanese waters. The launch comes after North Korea accused the US of spy plane incursions over its territory and threatened retaliation. The US dismissed the accusations, stating that its military patrols comply with international law. Tensions have escalated on the Korean Peninsula due to North Korea's increased missile activity. The US and South Korea have conducted joint military drills in response to Pyongyang's missile launches and its commitment to expanding its weapons development. This year, North Korea has conducted numerous missile launches, including the testing of a failed spy satellite and a reported test of its "most powerful" missile, a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The recent missile launch was detected by Japanese and South Korean military officials, who classified it as a long-range missile. The missile flew eastwards from Pyongyang for over an hour before landing in the sea. North Korea's previous ballistic missile tests occurred in mid-June and February, including an ICBM test. ICBMs are concerning due to their long-range capability, potentially reaching mainland United States. In the past, North Korea has demonstrated the potential to reach the US mainland with its missile tests.
