Overview
North Korea’s nuclear weapons program has become increasingly more sophisticated and advanced. North Korea announced in April that its missile technology is capable of reaching the U.S. mainland, raising fears of a nuclear attack on Hawaii. This article will discuss the potential of North Korea to hit Hawaii and what it would mean for the state.
North Korea’s Possibility
North Korea has a large arsenal of missiles which have been tested since the 1980s. The latest development is the Hwasong-15 Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) which is believed to have the longest range with a 2,000 km altitude. North Korea has conducted missile tests near the waters of Hawaii and is believed to have the capability to launch a nuclear strike on the island state.
In June 2017, North Korea tested a missile that flew 500 km over Japan, raising tensions in the region. The tests have been seen as a direct threat to Hawaii and the US. According to US Defense Secretary, James Mattis, North Korea is “a direct threat to the United States and our allies in the region.”
The Impact on Hawaii
Hawaii is a US state located 4,400 km from the US mainland. It is one of the most vulnerable states to a nuclear strike from North Korea and would be the first target as it is geographically closer than other states. It is estimated that if a missile were to be launched from North Korea, it would take about 20 minutes for it to reach Hawaii.
Recent developments in North Korea’s missile technology has led to the US government to issue an emergency alert system to help warn the citizens of Hawaii. The alert system was used in January 2018 when North Korea conducted a missile test that flew over a part of Japan.
Preparedness Plans
In light of the threat posed by North Korea, Hawaii government and local authorities have developed emergency preparedness plans. A state executive order was issued in 2017 which requires the creation of a statewide Emergency Management Agency to coordinate resources and develop a plan to protect the state.
The state’s defense plan involves an early warning system that will detect a nuclear missile launch and alert the public. It also includes plans for evacuation from major cities and the use of shelters if a missile were to hit the island.
Political Implications
A nuclear attack on Hawaii would have serious political implications for the US and the world. It would signal a major shift in US foreign policy towards North Korea and could lead to a military confrontation. The US government has already taken steps to restrict foreign trade with North Korea and further economic sanctions could be imposed.
The US would likely seek the support of its allies in the region in the event of a nuclear attack. North Korea’s only ally in the region is China and, as such, China would be a key player in determining the course of action the US would take.
Global Repercussions
A nuclear strike on Hawaii would have reverberations across the world and could result in a global nuclear arms race. North Korea’s neighbours, South Korea and Japan, have already signalled their unease at North Korea’s nuclear programme and have expressed concerns of their own security as a result.
A nuclear attack on Hawaii would likely lead to China, Russia, and other countries developing or expanding their own nuclear arms programmes. This could create a highly unstable global situation with countries vying for nuclear weapons in the name of self-defence.
Psychological Factors
In addition to the political and military implications of a nuclear strike on Hawaii, there are also psychological implications.
A nuclear strike would cause mass panic amongst the citizens of Hawaii as well as other US states. People would be afraid for their lives as well as their families. This could lead to further mental health issues as people struggle with their fear, anxiety, and uncertainty.
Hawaii is a heavily populated tourist destination and a nuclear strike would also have a negative impact on the tourism industry in the state. The publicity of a nuclear attack could drive away potential tourists and have a negative impact on the economy of the island.
Nuclear Weapons’s Alternatives
There are alternatives to nuclear weapons as a means of deterring a North Korean attack on Hawaii. For example, the US government could deploy anti-missile systems such as the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system which is designed to destroy incoming missiles.
The US could also deploy conventional forces such as the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). This system provides the US with an early warning of an enemy launch and can intercept and destroy a missile in-flight.
The US could also strengthen economic sanctions against North Korea to deter them from launching a missile. This could include targeted economic sanctions designed to cripple North Korea’s economy and progress in nuclear weapons technology.
Humanitarian Action
A humanitarian response to the threat posed by North Korea would involve supporting the citizens of Hawaii and other US states who would be affected by the launch. This could include the distribution of emergency aid such as food, water, and medical supplies. It could also involve providing psychological and social support to people in affected areas to help them cope with their fear and anxiety.
The US government could also seek to engage in humanitarian action abroad by providing aid and support to the people of North Korea. This could involve providing food and medical aid as well as economic and educational support to help alleviate poverty and reduce tensions between the two countries.
Public Perception
Public perception of North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and their potential to hit Hawaii is a key factor in determining the appropriate response of the US. A majority of people in the US are in favor of diplomatic solutions to the issue rather than a military solution.
However, there is still a vast amount of uncertainty and fear amongst the population of Hawaii and the US. There is a need to provide accurate information and clear direction to help reassure the public and reduce fear.
International Collaboration
The threat posed by North Korea requires an international response. The US should work in collaboration with other countries in the region such as China, South Korea, and Russia. It should also seek the support of the United Nations and other international organisations.
The international community should work together to negotiate an agreement with North Korea which would curb its nuclear ambitions and prevent a war from occurring. This would require the US and other countries to put in place economic, political, and diplomatic measures to pressure North Korea into de-escalating its nuclear programs.
