Seoul: The U.S. military announced it is aware of a recent ballistic missile launch conducted by North Korea, emphasizing its steadfast defense commitment to allies in the region.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the U.S. Pacific Command issued a statement shortly after North Korea launched a short-range ballistic missile toward the East Sea. This missile launch precedes a significant South Korea-U.S. military exercise, which North Korea has criticized as a potential rehearsal for an invasion.

The statement from the U.S. Pacific Command, available on its website, confirmed, "We are aware of the missile launch and are consulting closely with our allies and partners." It further assured that current assessments indicate the event does not pose an immediate threat to U.S. personnel, territory, or allies. The statement reiterated the United States' commitment to the defense of its homeland and its regional allies.

This recent launch follows North Korea's testing of a tactical ballistic missile, new multiple rocket launchers, and other weapons on June 25.