US warns N Korea against provocation after execution
Iran Press TV
Sat Dec 14, 2013 3:10PM GMT
The United States has warned North Korea against any "provocative acts" following the shock execution of its leader's uncle who was once a powerful political figure.
The US State Department voiced concern over regional stability after Jang Song-thaek, the uncle of current leader Kim Jong-un, was executed for leading what Pyongyang claims to be a counter-revolutionary faction.
"Certainly, it's something we're concerned about, and we would urge the North Koreans not to take provocative acts, not to do so going forward, because it's not in the interest of regional stability," US State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf said on Friday.
Washington is already in regular contacts with Beijing, a close ally of Pyongyang, Harf said, and is consulting its allies in the region about the impossible implications.
The comments came after South Korea pledged to increase military vigilance against any potential provocations, saying the execution indicated Kim's firm resolve to tighten his grip on power.
Pyongyang announced on Thursday that it had executed Jang, the country's unofficial number two, for 'acts of treachery' and "attempting to overthrow the state" following a special military trial.
He was described as 'human scum' and 'worse than a dog' for committing unspecified crimes for which, according to state media, he had pleaded guilty.
China, South Korea, Japan and the US are closely monitoring the situation, which is the biggest political turmoil since Kim Jong-un took power.
Pyongyang has launched a media blitz in an effort to justify Jang's elimination and rally support behind the young leader.
HJ/HJ
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