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Iran has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) announcing military live-fire activity in the airspace surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints for energy trade.
According to the aviation notice, the military exercise will take place between Jan. 27 and Jan. 29 within a circular area with a radius of five nautical miles near the strait.
The designated airspace is restricted and hazardous up to 25,000 feet for the duration of the drills due to increased operational activity.
Though the notice is a standard procedure for such drills, it coincides with a period of friction between Iran and the US and Israel.
Iranian government spokesperson Fatma Mohajerani stated earlier today that Tehran prioritizes dialogue and regional stability but remains prepared to pursue alternative options to protect national interests.
She argued that foreign media coverage has contributed to a growing perception of an imminent war against Iran, creating anxiety among the Iranian public.
Mohajerani emphasized that Iran is not unfamiliar with such threats, noting that the country has long viewed itself as operating under conditions of multi-layered conflict.
While reaffirming diplomacy as the preferred path, she stressed that Iran is “fully prepared” for war if circumstances demand it.
Meanwhile, reports in the U.S. media claim Washington is reinforcing its military posture in the region in anticipation of a possible confrontation with Iran.
US intelligence reports shared with the Trump administration indicate the Iranian government is significantly compromised, following weeks of domestic unrest and economic decline.
As of Jan. 26, the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, escorted by three Tomahawk missile–equipped warships, entered the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility in the western Indian Ocean.
Officials said that if ordered, the carrier strike group could theoretically be ready for combat operations within one to two days.
The same sources claimed the U.S. has deployed an additional dozen F-15E fighter jets to increase its strike capabilities in the region.
To protect U.S. forces from potential Iranian retaliation, Washington is also said to have sent more Patriot and THAAD air defense systems to counter short- and medium-range missile threats.
These measures are portrayed as defensive, aimed at safeguarding personnel and assets rather than signaling an immediate offensive move.
Still, the scale of the deployments has fueled speculation about possible escalation scenarios.
U.S. officials reportedly confirmed that Washington has held consultations with Israeli counterparts, alongside meetings in Baghdad and discussions with Saudi and Qatari officials.
These contacts suggest a coordinated diplomatic track running parallel to military preparations, reflecting regional concerns over stability and security.
U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham told The New York Times that he had discussed Iran with President Donald Trump.
Graham also reaffirmed his expectation that the president will support Iranian demonstrators, framing the move as a fulfillment of Trump's 'Make Iran Great Again' pledge.
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