Washington, July 8 (RHC)-- U.S. Defense Secretary James Mattis has said the American military "remains ready" for conflict with North Korea following the country’s latest ballistic missile test, but added that he does not believe Washington is "closer to war" with Pyongyang.

"I do not believe this capability in itself brings us closer to war because the president's been very clear, the secretary of State's been very clear, that we are leading with diplomatic and economic efforts," Mattis told reporters at the Pentagon.

He added the diplomatic effort includes economic sanctions that are supported by "the military position that we're taking right now."  He said: “The military remains ready in accordance with our alliance with Japan, with [South] Korea.  We stand ready to provide options if they are necessary."

U.S. President Donald Trump threatened North Korea with “consequences” following its latest ballistic missile test. Mattis said the Pentagon maintains military options for the president to respond to North Korea. The Trump administration has repeatedly said in recent months that all options are on the table, and has deployed a strike group and a nuclear-powered submarine to the region in a show of force.