North Korea demands from US heighten regional tensions

North Korea has issued new military demands, labeling the U.S. as a "hostile and confrontational entity." This follows the deployment of additional F-35B fighter jets to Japan, which North Korea claims increases the risk of nuclear conflict. The Korean Central News Agency criticized U.S. military exercises with South Korea, calling them "war rehearsals." North Korea warned that it would respond to U.S. military reinforcements, asserting that these actions heighten tensions in the region. The U.S. continues its military drills, including the ongoing Freedom Shield exercise, which involves various air operations. The drills are set to conclude on March 21, amid rising tensions and North Korea's recent missile tests.