Washington D.C.House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member, Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09), made the following statement after North Korea conducted its third nuclear test:

“It is concerning and unfortunate that Kim Jong Un continues to lead North Korea down the same reckless and belligerent path as his father. This latest provocative and unnecessary act violates North Korea's international commitments and will not bring respect or prosperity to the suffering people of North Korea - it will only continue to isolate the regime and undermine the stability of the region.

“The world should respond forcefully in condemning the test and unite behind diplomatic steps to pressure the regime to strongly reconsider similar actions in the future.”