A North Korean state-run paper on Monday voiced strong support for Iran’s launch of nuclear-capable missiles last month, praising it as the Teheran’s effort to maintain “autonomous development” to counter the increasing pressure from the West.

The Rodong Sinmun editorial, entitled “The West’s persistent machinations and Iran’s strong confrontation,” shared the North’s view of the ongoing power-struggle between Washington and Tehran, claiming continuing sanctions against Iran – even after last year’s nuclear agreement – are the atrocity.

“In July last year, once they reached an agreement on Iran’s nuclear issue, the U.S. unwillingly liftedeconomic sanctions on the country. But