North Korea fired several suspected ballistic missiles on Sunday, according to Japan, marking the seventh such launch this year and the fourth in April alone. The launches are part of a recent surge in weapons tests as Pyongyang seeks to advance its military capabilities.

Japanese officials said the missiles appeared to have fallen outside Japan's exclusive economic zone. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the government convened an emergency response team and is working closely with the United States and South Korea to analyze the launches and ensure public safety.

The tests violate resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council, which prohibit North Korea from developing its ballistic missile program. Pyongyang rejects the restrictions, arguing they infringe on its sovereign right to self-defense. Analysts say the North may view current global tensions as an opportunity to further strengthen its nuclear and missile capabilities.