Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reiterated the nation's status as a nuclear power, declaring it "irreversible" and vowing to strengthen North Korea's nuclear capabilities permanently.

According to Thai News Agency, Kim Jong Un's remarks were made during a policy prioritization speech to the North Korean parliament. He emphasized that expanding "nuclear deterrence for self-defense" is crucial for national security, regional stability, and economic development. Kim rejected any notion of trading nuclear disarmament for economic benefits or security guarantees, asserting that the decision to maintain nuclear power alongside national development is strategically sound.

In his address to the Supreme People's Assembly, Kim highlighted the importance of nuclear weapons in deterring war and enabling states to focus resources on economic growth and improving living standards. Analysts in South Korea interpret his statement as an implicit criticism of U.S. military operations in Iran.

Kim accused the United States and its allies of destabilizing the region by deploying strategic nuclear weapons near the Korean Peninsula. He stated that North Korea no longer views itself as a threatened state but as a powerful entity capable of posing threats if necessary.

Regarding South Korea, Kim labeled it as the "most hostile state," warning that any attempts by South Korea to violate North Korea's sovereignty would be met with a "ruthless response, without hesitation or restraint." This marks a shift in North Korea's stance towards South Korea, moving away from the prospect of peaceful reunification to defining the relationship as one between hostile states.