Wed Sep 25 09:24:37 UTC 2024: ## China Fires Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, Sparking International Concerns
**HONG KONG/LONDON** – China on Wednesday conducted a test launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) into the Pacific Ocean, marking its first known ICBM launch in decades. The Chinese Ministry of Defense confirmed the launch, stating that the missile carrying a dummy warhead splashed down in the planned area.
While Chinese officials claim they notified relevant countries in advance, Japan’s chief cabinet secretary, Hayashi Yoshimasa, stated that Japan was not informed prior to the launch. He confirmed that the missile flew over Japanese territory but did not cause any damage.
The test launch, described as a routine training exercise by the Chinese Ministry of Defense, comes amid heightened tensions with the United States and its allies in the region.
The launch follows recent purges within the Chinese military’s Rocket Force, raising questions about the military’s preparedness despite internal turmoil. The test-fire also coincides with the upcoming 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on October 1st.
The launch has sparked international concern, especially given recent US efforts to strengthen ties with Japan and South Korea to counter China’s growing influence in the region. US President Joe Biden, speaking at the UN General Assembly, emphasized the importance of these partnerships for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Japan’s Yoshimasa expressed concern about China’s rapidly increasing defense budget and lack of transparency regarding its military activities near Japanese territory, stating that this is a serious concern for Japan and the international community.
The launch highlights the ongoing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region and raises questions about China’s long-term military ambitions.
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