North Korea Backs Iran’s New Supreme Leader, Condemns US-Israel Actions

North Korea has expressed its support for Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment as the new Supreme Leader of Iran, while simultaneously condemning the United States and Israel for actions it deems detrimental to regional peace and security. The statement comes after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike on February 28, 2026.

Pyongyang Respects Iran’s Choice

According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), a spokesperson for North Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that Pyongyang respects the right of the Iranian people to choose their Supreme Leader. “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,” the spokesperson said.

Condemnation of US and Israel

North Korea strongly condemned the “illegal” military attack by the United States and Israel on Iran, asserting that such aggression undermines regional stability. The spokesperson expressed “grave concern” over the actions of the US and Israel, accusing them of “destroying the regional peace and security foundations and escalating instability worldwide.” The statement further accused Washington and Israel of violating Iran’s “political system and territorial integrity” and attempting to “overthrow its social system.”

Escalating Tensions and Military Exercises

This expression of support from North Korea follows recent developments in the region, including the commencement of the “Freedom Shield” springtime military drills by the United States and South Korea. Pyongyang has warned of “unimaginably terrible consequences” in response to these exercises, viewing them as potentially preemptive acts of war. Al Jazeera reports that North Korea has also been conducting its own military exercises, including test-firings of strategic cruise missiles from the naval destroyer Choe Hyon, aiming to enhance its naval capabilities with nuclear-capable missiles.

North Korea’s Nuclear Program and Regional Dynamics

Despite decades of efforts led by the United States to dismantle North Korea’s nuclear program, progress has been limited. Recent overtures from the Trump administration for renewed high-level talks with Pyongyang have been met with cautious responses from North Korea, with Kim Jong Un suggesting a potential for dialogue if Washington accepts Pyongyang’s nuclear status. The Times of India notes that North Korea has also been showcasing its military advancements, including the designation of Kim Jong Un’s daughter, Ju Ae, as a potential successor.

Key Takeaways

• North Korea supports Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new Supreme Leader.
• Pyongyang condemns the US and Israel for their actions in Iran.
• North Korea continues to develop its military capabilities, including nuclear-capable missiles.
• Regional tensions remain high with ongoing military exercises by the US and South Korea.