TEHRAN: Iran on Tuesday issued an aviation warning announcing live-fire military exercises in airspace near the Strait of Hormuz, shortly after US naval forces entered the Middle East, underscoring rising tensions in the region.
According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), Iranian forces will conduct live-fire drills from January 27 to 29 within a five-nautical-mile radius of the strategic waterway. The designated airspace, extending from ground level up to 25,000 feet, has been declared hazardous during the exercise period.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key global shipping route through which millions of barrels of oil pass daily, making it a critical chokepoint for international energy markets.
The announcement comes as US Air Forces Central launched a multi-day readiness exercise across the region aimed at demonstrating rapid deployment and combat preparedness.
US officials have said all options remain under consideration in dealing with Tehran, including possible military action, as Washington and its allies seek to counter Iran’s regional influence.
Iranian authorities have warned that any attack would trigger a swift and comprehensive response.
Meanwhile, US warships including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and several guided-missile destroyers have arrived in the Middle East under US Central Command.
President Donald Trump said an American “armada” was moving toward Iran, expressing hope that a diplomatic solution could still be reached.
The US military has also deployed fighter aircraft and air-defense systems to the region, marking one of the largest buildups since last year’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would respond forcefully to any Iranian aggression, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized US threats during talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, warning they would destabilize the region.
A senior commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards cautioned neighboring countries against allowing their territory, airspace or waters to be used for hostile actions against Iran.
Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have both assured Tehran that they will not permit any attacks to be launched from their territories.