PYONGYANG: A delegation from North Korea, led by Yun Jong-ho, the cabinet minister for international trade, is currently visiting Iran, as reported by North Korea’s official media.
The delegation departed from Pyongyang on Tuesday to engage in discussions with Iranian counterparts, although specific details of the visit were not disclosed by the North’s KCNA news agency.
The United States and its Western allies have long suspected cooperation between North Korea and Iran on ballistic missile programs, raising concerns about potential exchanges of technical expertise and components for manufacturing these weapons. Despite Western allegations, both Iran and North Korea have denied engaging in such activities.
Yun Jong-ho, previously involved in Syria-related affairs, has been instrumental in fostering ties with Russia. Earlier this month, he led a delegation to Moscow, highlighting North Korea’s efforts to enhance diplomatic relations with key countries in the region.
The visit occurs amidst heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, longtime adversaries embroiled in a shadow conflict. Recent escalatory attacks between the two nations have intensified against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing conflict with Gaza, further complicating dynamics across the Middle East.
In response to an Israeli strike near its embassy in Damascus, Syria, Iran launched a significant barrage of drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles on April 13, aiming to overwhelm Israel’s air defences. Israeli forces, supported by the US, UK, and Jordan, claimed to have intercepted the majority of the incoming projectiles.
The exchange of attacks underscores the volatile regional landscape, with Iran and Israel navigating complex geopolitical challenges amid ongoing conflicts and strategic maneuvers in the Middle East.
