North Korea recently claimed that the U.S.-led alliance is experiencing a growing rift following statements by several Western nations signaling their intention to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state.
On Saturday, Rodong Sinmun, the official newspaper of the Workers’ Party of Korea, addressed this issue in a commentary titled “What Does the Western Shift on Palestine Show?” The article pointed out that following France’s lead, countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, and Finland have expressed, albeit conditionally, their intent to recognize Palestine as an independent state. The commentary suggested that this shift is gaining traction.
The newspaper argued, “This signifies that Western nations can no longer blindly follow the U.S. and Israel on Middle Eastern matters.” It further asserted, “The international movement for Palestinian statehood will only gain momentum, and those opposing it will hasten their own downfall,” implying that nations resisting Palestinian sovereignty are destined for defeat.
In its continued emphasis on national pride, Rodong Sinmun highlighted the enduring spirit of anti-Japanese resistance in anticipation of Liberation Day. The front page carried an article titled “Let’s Learn from the Indomitable Fighting Spirit of the First-Generation Revolutionaries.” The newspaper proclaimed, “The unyielding fighting spirit of our anti-Japanese revolutionaries is the ideological and spiritual foundation that has shaped our people into self-reliant fighters.”
On the second page, the newspaper reported on a commemorative meeting marking the 40th anniversary of Changkwang Food Street. This popular public service facility has been a cornerstone of community life, and the article detailed the attendance of officials and staff from the People’s Service Guidance Bureau, Changkwang Service Management Office, and Changkwang General Restaurant at the celebration.
The third page highlighted policies aimed at fostering a new generation of leaders. It stated, “The Party’s commitment to nurturing the next generation into strong, reliable leaders is a clear manifestation of our determination to ensure the future of our powerful nation.” Under the headline “What Determines the Leading Role?” the article emphasized, “The key to establishing authority in any field is none other than competence.”
On the fourth page, Rodong Sinmun reported that a working-level delegation, led by Deputy Prosecutor General Yun Kwang Won, returned to North Korea on August 8 after completing an official visit to Russia. The newspaper also focused on the success of the Changkwang Service Management Office, highlighting it as a beloved public service institution that has served the people for 40 years. The article lauded the dedication of the office’s officials and employees, who have worked tirelessly to fulfill their duties as public servants in line with the Party’s directives.
On the fifth page, the newspaper called for thorough preparations for the autumn wheat and barley planting season. It reported that several farms, work teams, and brigades are exceeding expectations by increasing their wheat production by 1.5 to 2 tons per hectare compared to previous years, which has boosted the confidence and morale of agricultural workers.
In the same section, Rodong Sinmun covered ongoing training for officials being dispatched to new regional industrial factory construction sites. The training, which began on July 24, is part of an effort to rapidly develop modern industrial plants in 20 cities and counties. Special training for equipment assembly leaders is being held in Pyongyang.