The sudden escalation in tensions in the Pacific came after US intelligence analysts assessed that North Korea has now produced a miniaturized nuclear warhead, according to multiple sources familiar with the analysis of North Korea's missile and nuclear program. Last month Pyongyang tested two intercontinental ballistic missiles , known as Hwasong-14, which it says are capable of hitting the US mainland. In response to the missile tests, the UN Security Council passed a resolution imposing new sanctions . The resolution, which targets North Korea's international revenue streams, was passed unanimously after strong lobbying from the United States. The US separately announced sanctions on North Korea, alongside Iran and Russia.

Source: CNN August 09, 2017 22:47 UTC