We featured the latest report on the United States’ relocation plans to the Middle East. Something like this: Possibly F15s, F16s, F22s, F35s: Dozens of US jets are converging on the Middle East. Similar accounts include:
đź”´ The United States has significantly strengthened its military posture in the Middle East, with multiple C-17 transport aircraft deployed to bases in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, special operations forces (including Night Stalkers and AC-130 gunships) stationed in the region, and two aircraft carriers attacked… pic.twitter.com/tC3mXC6nI3
— Inquiry (@RecruitTh) January 10, 2026
It is little known that Iran has changed its military doctrine from authorizing purely defensive actions to authorizing first strikes.
From Tasmin News, January 6th, translated by Resistance.org:
Statement of the Secretariat of the Defense Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran, January 6, 2026.
[….]
The Islamic Republic of Iran relies on national unity, comprehensive deterrence and perfect defense posture, reaffirming that its security, independence and territorial integrity constitute an inviolable and uncrossable line. Violations of national interests, interference in internal affairs, and acts against Iran’s stability will be met with a proportionate, targeted and decisive response.
Within the framework of legitimate self-defense, the Islamic Republic of Iran considers objective manifestations of threats as part of the security equation, and is not limited to responding after an action has taken place.
Leader History reported on January 8 that Russia is evacuating embassy staff from Israel. A colleague with connections to diplomats across the Global South wrote to us:
China also withdrew its diplomats from Israel. Russia called on its citizens to evacuate via Egypt. As far as I know, neither country has withdrawn from Iran.
Since you can read it for free on Twitter, we will post the full text of this tweet for ease of reading.
Dramatic changes move us from a “defense” posture to an “imminent attack” posture. – Talal Nare
The midday action concerned “troop movement.” Now, after sunset, Iran has begun “clearing shooting corridors.” (shooting corridor). This means surrendering certain airspace and allowing that airspace. pic.twitter.com/lk6nxk0UY9
— Intel Sky (@Intel_Sky) January 10, 2026
body:
Dramatic changes move us from a “defense” posture to an “imminent attack” posture. – Talal Nare
The midday action concerned “troop movement.” Now, after sunset, Iran has begun “clearing shooting corridors.” (shooting corridor). This means clearing certain airspace so missiles can be fired at external targets without colliding with civilian or friendly aircraft.
Here’s a new exclusive update in the Evening Brief on January 10 (17:01).
1. “Fire Corridor”. From central to western Iran
A new dangerous NOTAM has appeared (A0398/26).
Location: Wide airstrip extending from Markazi province (Arak) and Hamedan towards the western border (Kermanshah, Ilam).
Strategic analysis: This is a route clearance rather than a protective site closure. These “air tunnels” are typically established to allow swarms of ballistic missiles and drones to safely pass from central launch sites to targets in Iraq or Israel. The presence of this corridor indicates that the missile battery is armed and directed to the west.
2. “Ocean Gate”. Jask
NOTAM number (A0390/26) has appeared.
Location: Jask Port and Naval Base (Gulf of Oman, outside the Strait of Hormuz).
Crucial: Jask possesses large submarines (Kilo class) and long-range anti-ship missile systems.
Analysis: Activating Jask means strengthening the “rear platform”. If the Strait of Hormuz were to close, Jask would be the only base in the Indian Ocean capable of engaging the US fleet. This will secure the rear of the Iranian navy.
3. “The Last Iron Dome” Tehran (SHORAD Alert)
NOTAM number (A0392/26) has appeared.
Location: Certain areas of Tehran are restricted to very low altitudes.
Analysis: This shows the deployment and operation of short-range air defense systems (SHORAD) such as “Majid” and “Tor-M1” between residential buildings. The targets here are not fighter jets, but cruise missiles and small drones that can slip between buildings. This is the “last layer” of defense before a collision.
4. “Vahdati” Air Base. Dezful
NOTAM number (A0395/26) has appeared.
Location: Vahadati Air Base, Dezful.
Why it matters: A highly advanced attack base (near the Iraqi border) known for its fast F-5 aircraft used for rapid response.
Analysis: Placing this base in “live fire” status means it will be the spearhead of any border air engagement to prevent enemy aircraft from penetrating deep into the territory.
Geopolitical conclusion of the evening brief (17:01):
The title of this file is “Opening the Way to Fire”.
The most dangerous element in this update is the “Western Sky Corridor” (point 1).
Securing air routes from the center of the country to its borders is not just a defensive measure, but a very strong indicator of the country’s intent to launch offensive projectiles (missiles and drones).
You’re ready:
Commanders are in the bunker (starting at noon).
The path of attack is (now) open.
Inside the capital (currently), close-range defense (SHORAD) activated.
Iran now stands with its finger on the trigger.
As shown at the end of this post, this posture may be a signal of readiness rather than a posture for immediate action. However, given the clear signs that the United States is moving military assets into the Iranian theater, it is hard to believe that it would make sense for Iran to endure in silence.
If the intent is to launch a pre-emptive strike rather than a show of threat, one must assume that Iran will attack when it is ready, rather than sitting back in a state of high readiness. Therefore, if the above reading is accurate and Iran plans to act first, it seems likely that the attack will take place tonight or at the latest tomorrow night.
