North Korea fires missile; Japan's defense minister condemns nuclear development

North Korea launched at least one ballistic missile Thursday afternoon, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi confirmed, saying it fell near the Korean Peninsula's east coast without threatening Japanese territory. Koizumi said no flight over Japan's territory or exclusive economic zone was confirmed and no damage has been reported. He stated that regardless of North Korea's intent, its nuclear missile development threatens peace and stability and is absolutely intolerable. Japan lodged a protest via its Beijing embassy, citing U.N. Security Council violations. Prime Minister Takaichi ordered enhanced intelligence gathering, safety checks, and contingency preparation. Koizumi pledged continued vigilance with U.S. and South Korean allies.