When George W Bush was president, he called Iraq, Iran and North Korea the “axis of evil”. Yet he only invaded Iraq, the weakest of the three. So naturally Iran and North Korea feel they have to be as strong as possible in order to avoid being next on America’s hit list.
Recognising North Korea’s right to exist and engaging in direct diplomatic contact could reduce some of Pyongyang’s fears, which may be what’s driving the country towards becoming a major nuclear power. What’s the alternative?
Eric Bahrt