North Korea’s autocratic ruler has decided not to launch missiles toward Guam, Pyongyang’s state media reported Tuesday, easing the immediate threat of an attack on the U.S. territory in the western Pacific. “If they fire at the United States it could escalate into war very quickly,” Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon. The United Nations Security Council voted unanimously to add new sanctions on North Korea, and President Trump warned he would unleash "fire and fury" if Pyongyang continued its threats. Analysts said North Korea’s announcement was a clear de-escalation. 7:45 p.m.: This article has been updated with more details from North Korea’s statement and analyst comment.

Source: Los Angeles Times August 15, 2017 01:43 UTC