"There is a possibility that North Korea is capable to fill warheads with sarin and carry out a [missile] strike. Of course, the discussion of deterrence measures should depend on the real situation. I think that we should constantly consider different options regarding the steps our country should take," Abe said in an address to the Japanese parliament, as quoted by the NHK broadcaster.
Abe stressed that Japan and China are looking for ways to peacefully resolve tensions on the Korean peninsula.
On April 5, North Korea reportedly launched a ballistic missile from Sinpho, South Hamgyong province, in the direction of the Sea of Japan.
Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have escalated ever since North Korea carried out a number of missile launches and nuclear tests, one of the latest being a launch of four missiles in the direction of the Sea of Japan conducted March 6. The launches are considered to be in violation with the corresponding resolution adopted by the United Nations. In addition, North Korea reportedly launched on April 5 a ballistic missile from Sinpho, in the South Hamgyong province.
Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem denied the government’s involvement in the Idlib incident, saying it had never used chemical weapons on either civilians or terrorists operating in the country and will never do so.