We are very concerned at the level of tension over Korea, which has generated the biggest threat of nuclear war since the Cuban crisis of 1962. The US and South Korean militaries are due to commence a new set of exercises on 21 August which can only sharply raise tensions. The US already maintains a force of tens of thousands of troops in South Korea. It has installed the Terminal High Altitude Area Defence missile system and is conducting joint military exercises in the country which include flying nuclear-capable bombers near to the North Korean border. Last year, Britain for the first time sent four RAF Typhoon aircraft to take part in exercises in the area alongside the US and South Korean military.
Donald Trump and his national security adviser, General McMaster, have both stated that the “nuclear option” is on the table. This, they have made clear, includes the possibility of a first strike. Given the destructive potential of the nuclear arsenals on both sides, the “nuclear option” would lead to a war of genocidal proportions. Stepping up military engagement is the diametrically wrong response to the current crisis. What is needed is de-escalation on both sides.
We call on Theresa May to rule out committing any British armed forces to the Korean peninsula. Britain should instead apply pressure on the US government to end the ratcheting up of tensions and to pursue a political solution.
Brian Eno Musician, president of the Stop the War Coalition
Bruce Kent CND vice-president
Emma Dent Coad MP Lab, Kensington
Tommie Sheppard MP SNP, Edinburgh East
Chris Williamson MP Lab, Derby North and shadow fire minister
Mark Serwotka PCS General secretary
Kevin Courtney General secretary, NUT
Mark Rylance Actor
Miriam Margolyes Actor
Murad Qureshi Chair of the Stop the War Coalition
Lindsey German Convenor of the Stop the War Coalition
Kate Hudson General secretary, CND
Michael Rosen Writer and broadcaster
Danny Dorling Professor of geography
Kate Smurthwaite Comedian and activist
Giles Fraser Writer and priest
Victoria Brittain Writer and journalist
Paul Rogers
Harry Leslie Smith Author and second world war veteran
• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters
