THE US recommitted yesterday to plans to deploy a nuclear missile fleet in South Korea later this year, despite objections from China that it could destabalise the security of the region.

US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis flew to South Korea on Thursday to discuss the deployment of THAAD anti-ballistic missiles there with South Korean and Japanese officials.

“Were it not for the provocative behaviour of North Korea, we would have no need for THAAD out here.” he said.

In a dig at Russia and China who both oppose the missile deployment, Mr Mattis added: “Thaad should be a worry to no nation other than North Korea.”

ANti-ballistic missiles are considered a threat as they would protect a nuclear attacker from realiation.

On Wednesday the US also threatened Iran with reprisals over Tehran’s testing of a ballistic missile.

US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser Michael Flynn said: “As of today, we are officially putting Iran on notice.”

US officials said they were considering a “range of options” including economic measures and increased support for Iran’s regional adversaries.

Mr Flynn claimed that Iran was trying to build a “long-term presence” in Yemen by supporting the Houthi-backed government.

Yemen is under a bloody assault by Saudi Arabia, using British and US weapons.

The US is currently conducting air strikes against Houthis and groups affiliated with al-Qaida in Yemen.

Yesterday the Pentagon admitted that its air strikes “likely killed” women and children in a commando raid in Yemen. Witnesses said 27 civilians died.