Recent reports indicate a significant increase in the United States’ military presence in the Middle East. This includes the deployment of various aircraft, such as those detailed in this article about recently dispatched jets. Additional claims note the following:
🔴 U.S. has significantly increased its military posture in the Middle East, with multiple C-17 transports deploying to bases in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, special operations assets (including Night Stalkers and AC-130 gunships) positioned regionally, and two carrier strike… pic.twitter.com/tC3mXC6nI3
— The Inquiry (@InquiryTh) January 10, 2026
Amid these developments, a significant, yet often overlooked, shift has occurred in Iran’s military strategy. The country has transitioned from a predominantly defensive approach to permitting pre-emptive strikes.
In a statement from Tasmin News on January 6, translated by Resistance.org, Iran’s leadership emphasized:
Statement of the Secretariat of the Defense Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, January 6, 2026.
[….]
The Islamic Republic of Iran asserts its unwavering commitment to national unity, a comprehensive deterrence capability, and full readiness for defense. The nation’s security, independence, and territorial integrity are non-negotiable. Any violation of national interests, interference in domestic matters, or actions undermining stability will provoke a decisive and targeted response.
In alignment with legitimate self-defense, Iran does not confine its response to provocations that have already occurred but acknowledges potential threats as part of its security calculus.
On January 8, an account by reader Historiality suggested that Russia may be evacuating its embassy staff from Israel. A contact familiar with diplomatic activities across the Global South shared additional information:
China has also withdrawn its diplomats from Israel. Russia has advised its citizens to exit through Egypt. To my knowledge, neither country has withdrawn from Iran.
For ease of reference, we are including this comprehensive tweet for reader convenience, as it is freely accessible on Twitter.
A dramatic shift moves us from “defense” to a posture of “imminent offense.”. –Talal Nahle
At noon, the measures concerned “troop movements.”. Now, after sunset, Iran has begun “clearing firing corridors.” (Firing Corridors). This means vacating specific airspaces to allow its… pic.twitter.com/lk6nxk0UY9
— IntelSky (@Intel_Sky) January 10, 2026
Here are pivotal details from the statement:
A dramatic shift moves us from “defense” to a posture of “imminent offense.” –Talal Nahle
Earlier today, discussions focused on “troop movements.” Now, following sunset, Iran has commenced “clearing firing corridors.” This indicates the deliberate evacuation of specific airspaces to facilitate missile launches toward external targets while avoiding civilian or allied aircraft.
Here’s the evening brief update from January 10 (17:01):1. “Fire Corridor”. From Central to Western Iran
A notable NOTAM (A0398/26) has been issued.
Location: An extensive airstrip extending from Markazi Province (Arak) and Hamedan toward the western borders (Kermanshah, Ilam).
Strategic analysis: This is not a mere protective measure; it signifies the establishment of a clear pathway for ballistic missiles or drone swarms to transit safely from central launch bases toward targets in Iraq or Israel. The existence of this corridor implies that missile batteries have been readied and oriented westward.2. “Ocean Gate”. Jask
A new NOTAM (A0390/26) has been issued.
Location: Jask port and naval base (located on the Gulf of Oman, outside the Strait of Hormuz).
Significance: Jask accommodates advanced submarines (Kilo class) and long-range anti-ship missile systems.
Analysis: Activating Jask enhances the “rear platform.” If the Strait of Hormuz is obstructed, Jask is the sole base capable of engaging U.S. fleets in the Indian Ocean. This solidifies the Iranian navy’s rear defenses.3. “The Last Iron Dome”. Tehran (SHORAD Alert)
A new NOTAM (A0392/26) has emerged.
Location: Very low-altitude restrictions are in place over specific locations in Tehran.
Analysis: This indicates the deployment and activation of short-range air defense systems (SHORAD) such as “Majid” or “Tor-M1” within urban areas. The objective here is to counter cruise missiles or small drones that might navigate through buildings. This represents the last line of defense before impact.4. “Vahdati” Air Base. Dezful
A new NOTAM (A0395/26) has appeared.
Location: Vahdati Air Base in Dezful.
Importance: A highly advanced offensive base (near the Iraqi border), renowned for rapid F-5 aircraft used for immediate response.
Analysis: Designating this base for “live fire” status suggests it will spearhead any border engagement to deter hostile aircraft from advancing into Iranian territory.Geopolitical summary of the evening brief (17:01):
The title of this document is “Opening the Road to Fire.”
The most alarming aspect in this update is the “western air corridor” (Point 1).
When a nation clears an air route from its interior toward its borders, it signals a strong intention to initiate offensive operations (missiles or drones), rather than merely maintaining defensive stances.Preparations are complete:
Commanders are in their bunkers (since noon).
The offensive pathway is cleared (now).
Close-range defense (SHORAD) is active within the capital (now).Iran is poised for action.
This current posture may indicate readiness rather than an immediate intent to act. However, given the evident mobilization of U.S. military resources towards the Iranian theater, it seems improbable that Iran would adopt a passive stance.
If their aim is indeed to launch a pre-emptive strike rather than merely displaying capabilities, it is likely that Iran will not hesitate but rather initiate action as soon as they are ready. If this interpretation holds true, a strike from Iran could be expected tonight or at the latest, the following evening.
