but i do think they should be put in some historical context. because this is the typical hyperbolic language that comes out of north korea. and they have made all kind -- made threats like this before. so not to ignore it, but also not to overreact to it either. >> i know you said earlier today there's still room for dialogue. are you talking about direct talks? is that in your opinion the only viable option at this point? because that's something obviously the u.s. has always avoided. >> yeah, i do think that is -- i won't say the only channel, but i think it's the most promising would be a direct dialogue with the north koreans. which they really want. as barbara indicated, the thing around pentagon is what they're most concerned with is face and leverage and recognition of their status as a nuclear power. they want to be seen as part of