North Korea's Threat

On March 30, 2013, North Korea again claimed to enter into a state of war with South Korea. As South Korean officials are pointing out though, these threats are insubstantial and follow a pattern of blustery threats before them. North Korea's actions are deceitful and fear-mongering, and are in no way supported by the Catholic Church. However, recent events from the U.S. regarding the situation have also caused a need for debate. The U.S. flew two stealth-bombers capable of delivering a nuclear payload over Pyongyang. Although the U.S.'s actions are certainly understandable, the preemptive demonstration the U.S. made lowers it to the same tactics that North Korea was using. This demonstration seeks to put fear into the hearts of North Korea's officials, albeit in order to stop hypothetical violence. In this case the ends do not justify the means. "But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also" (Matthew 5:39). I think the viewpoint of the Church is made clear through this quote.