The United States military has issued a stern warning to Iran, emphasizing that it will not accept any “unsafe and unprofessional behavior” near U.S. forces in the Middle East. This announcement comes as Iran prepares for live-fire naval exercises in the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz.

The statement coincides with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) gearing up for a two-day exercise commencing on Sunday, as confirmed by the U.S. Central Command. Earlier this week, President Donald Trump revealed that a “massive Armada,” spearheaded by the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, is en route to Iran.

In a statement, CENTCOM acknowledged Iran’s entitlement to conduct operations in international airspace and waters, provided they are done professionally. “Any unsafe and unprofessional behavior in proximity to U.S. forces, regional allies, or commercial vessels heightens the risk of accidents, escalations, and destabilization,” the statement warned.

CENTCOM assured that it is committed to safeguarding U.S. personnel, ships, and aircraft in the Middle East. “We will not permit unsafe actions by the IRGC, such as flying over U.S. military vessels during flight operations, low-altitude or armed overflights of U.S. military assets with unclear intentions, high-speed boat maneuvers on a collision course with U.S. military vessels, or aiming weapons at U.S. forces,” the statement elaborated.

A recent image released by U.S. Central Command shows an F/A-18E Super Hornet launching from the USS Abraham Lincoln’s flight deck during standard operations in the Arabian Sea, dated January 30, 2026.

The U.S. military, renowned for its highly trained and formidable force, will persist in conducting operations with utmost professionalism and in adherence to international standards. The statement concluded by urging Iran’s IRGC to uphold the same standards.

CENTCOM described the Strait or Hormuz as “an international sea passage and an essential trade corridor that supports regional economic prosperity.” 

The USS Abraham Lincoln sails in the Pacific Ocean in this photo released in August 2024. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Daniel Kimmelman)

“On any given day, roughly 100 of the world’s merchant vessels transit the narrow strait,” it said.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth said during a Cabinet meeting this week that the Department of War will “be prepared to deliver whatever this president expects” following a warning to Iran about its nuclear program. 

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026. (Evan Vucci/AP)

Trump said Wednesday Iran that “time is running out” to strike a deal.