Iran Closes Airspace, Announces Live-Fire Drills Near Strait of Hormuz

Iran has announced live-fire military drills and temporarily closed parts of its airspace near the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions with the United States continue to rise.

Iran issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) warning of hazardous conditions due to military activity in the area.

Airspace Restrictions Announced

According to the aviation notice, Iranian forces will conduct live-fire exercises from January 27 to January 29. The drills will take place within a five-nautical-mile radius of the Strait of Hormuz.

The restricted airspace will extend from ground level up to 25,000 feet, affecting both civil and military aircraft during the exercise period.

Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes. Millions of barrels of crude oil pass through it every day.

Any military activity or disruption in the area often raises global energy market concerns and increases geopolitical tension.

Rising US Military Presence in the Region

The NOTAM was issued just hours after US military assets arrived in the Middle East. US Air Forces Central (AFCENT) confirmed a multi-day readiness exercise across the region.

The exercise aims to demonstrate rapid deployment and sustainment capabilities amid rising tensions.

US Warships Enter Middle East Waters

US officials told Reuters that the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with several guided-missile destroyers, has entered the Middle East under US Central Command.

Former US President Donald Trump commented on the deployment, saying he hoped Iran would agree to a deal.

Strong Warnings From Iran and Israel

Iranian officials warned that any attack would trigger a swift and comprehensive response. President Masoud Pezeshkian said US threats only risk destabilizing the region.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also issued a warning, stating that Israel would respond with unprecedented force if attacked by Iran.

Regional Concerns and Military Alerts

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards cautioned neighboring countries against allowing their airspace or territory to be used for attacks on Iran.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates later assured Iran that they would not permit their territory or airspace to be used for hostile actions.

Iranian officials said the country’s military remains on high alert, stressing that any form of attack would be treated as an all-out war.