Announces live-fire drills over Strait of Hormuz amid US tensions
TEHRAN
Iran has issued a Notice to Airmen (Notam) announcing live-fire military activity in airspace near the Strait of Hormuz, hours after US military assets arrived in the Middle East, reflecting heightened tensions in the region. The aviation warning, published on Tuesday, said Iranian forces will carry out live-fire exercises from 27 to 29 January within a five-nautical-mile radius around the strait.
The notice said that the airspace in the designated area — from ground level up to 25,000 feet — will be restricted and considered hazardous for the duration of the activity. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic chokepoint for global trade, with millions of barrels of crude oil passing through it each day. Any disruption there often sends ripples through international energy markets and heightens geopolitical concern.
The NOTAM comes amid an increase in American military activity in the region as US Air Forces Central (AFCENT) has announced a multi-day readiness exercise across its area of responsibility, aimed at demonstrating rapid deployment and sustainment capabilities. Officials in Washington have said all options remain on the table in dealing with Tehran, including the possibility of military action, as the United States and Israel seek to counter Iran’s influence.
Iranian authorities have responded with warnings that any attack would prompt a “swift and comprehensive” response. The air navigation warning will affect civil and military flights through the area during the period of the exercises. Aviation authorities typically issue Notams in advance of live-fire drills to alert pilots and airlines to potential risks and temporary airspace closures.
