The Defense Ministry on Friday expressed strong regret over a North Korean general’s remark about readiness for war on the Korean Peninsula.

The ministry said in a statement that it is regrettable for North Korea to engage in provocative acts and to not be reasonable enough to accept the U.N. Security Council resolution on its nuclear test.

The statement came after North Korean General Ri Chan-bok told U.S. broadcaster ABC News Thursday that his country is “ready” for war.

The ministry denounced his remarks, saying they would escalate tensions despite international efforts to resolve the nuclear issue peacefully.

The ministry added that the South Korean military is in an optimum defense posture based on a solid alliance with the United States.