[TigerLikesRooster]

I think we have to work with our allies to ensure that they know they have no military option

buying time for diplomats to solve the basic problem

If he publicly declares that there is no military option, what is the point of buying time with military muscle-flexing, since NK gets the message that there is no chance it will be attacked.

[BwanaNdege]

“to ensure that they know they have no military option” in this case most likely refers to North Korea.