There is simmering tension between the US and Iran as the nations are yet to reach a nuclear deal after the second round of talks mediated by Oman in Geneva. Amid this, an age-old pizza theory has resurfaced; according to open sources on the internet, pizza outlets around the Pentagon are being tracked. Now, along with a lot of classified files, the administrative building of the US Department of Defense (DoD) has come under the scanner for a certain theory.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The ‘Pentagon Pizza Index’ – this is believed to indicate that a conflict or a major activity is either underway or about to happen. As the countries are yet to reach the final stage of the deal, Trump has already ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to be moved to the Middle East, where the USS Abraham Lincoln is already stationed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">While most pizzerias nearby the Pentagon are reporting low traffic, one of the closest pizzerias, Extreme Pizza, is reporting high traffic. As of 6:10pm ET <a href="https://t.co/mcotuaCr1C">pic.twitter.com/mcotuaCr1C</a>&mdash; Pentagon Pizza Report (@PenPizzaReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/PenPizzaReport/status/2025710299400073415?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>The lingering deal</h2>&nbsp;The deal has a huge role to play; Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told the Conference on Disarmament that “a new window of opportunity has opened”. But Donald Trump remained adamant about his terms on “zero uranium enrichment”. A war of words on social media continued, as the US president and the Iranian supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, went all out on X. This came after Trump ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to be moved to the Middle East, where the USS Abraham Lincoln is already stationed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-you-will-fail-too-khamenei-mocks-trump-for-claims-of-47-years-of-inability-to-eliminate-iran-1771330555834">‘You will fail too’: Khamenei mocks Trump for claims of 47 years of inability to eliminate Iran</a><h2>What is the Pentagon Pizza Index?</h2>According to the theory, when pizza orders around the Pentagon show a massive surge, it indicates a likely military action. This phenomenon suggests when officers do not have the bandwidth to leave their posts or desks, and it is believed they resort to fast food.&nbsp;And now the correlation is that demand for pizza increases at the pace of work pressure. So, the more pizza activity around the Pentagon indicates that something big is about to happen. Back in the day, in the non-Internet era, during the Cold War, Soviet operatives noticed the pizza deliveries in Washington. Putting two and two together, they hinted that the US intel team was either preparing or looking to troubleshoot for crises. This is also when the term 'pizzint’ was coined; it's the shortened form of pizza intelligence.

The ‘Pentagon Pizza Index’ – this is believed to indicate that a conflict or a major activity is either underway or about to happen. As the US and Iran are yet to reach the final stage of the deal.

There is simmering tension between the US and Iran as the nations are yet to reach a nuclear deal after the second round of talks mediated by Oman in Geneva. Amid this, an age-old pizza theory has resurfaced; according to open sources on the internet, pizza outlets around the Pentagon are being tracked. Now, along with a lot of classified files, the administrative building of the US Department of Defense (DoD) has come under the scanner for a certain theory. The ‘Pentagon Pizza Index’ – this is believed to indicate that a conflict or a major activity is either underway or about to happen. As the countries are yet to reach the final stage of the deal, Trump has already ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford, the world’s largest aircraft carrier, to be moved to the Middle East, where the USS Abraham Lincoln is already stationed.

The ‘Pentagon Pizza Index’ – this is believed to indicate that a conflict or a major activity is either underway or about to happen. As the US and Iran are yet to reach the final stage of the deal.

US plans attack on Iran? ‘Pentagon Pizza Index’ spikes, revealing major activity

A US strike on Iran places the USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford at immense risk. Tehran's vast arsenal of drone swarms and coastal missiles may overwhelm naval defences.

‘US Military in Danger’: Why an attack on Iran may put USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford at risk?

The US military may prefer regional land bases over the USS Abraham Lincoln for a potential strike on Iran. Land bases protect aircraft carriers from anti-ship missiles while enabling heavy bombers to deploy massive bunker busters.

Why the US military may attack Iran from its bases instead of from the USS Abraham Lincoln?

The US military maintains elite rapid deployment forces for the Middle East. From paratroopers ready in 18 hours to pre-positioned tanks in Kuwait, Pentagon assets can surge thousands of troops and aircraft to the region within days of an order.

'US vs Iran': How quickly can the US send more weapons and troops to the Middle East if needed?

America and Iran are currently on the verge of a full-blown war as the diplomatic tensions have risen, with both sides issuing warnings to each other. US Presient Donald Trump even deployed a large US naval “armada” to the West Asia and warned that time is running out for Iran to accept a deal. The POTUS also explicitly warned of military action if Iran refuses to negotiate or meet the demands of the US.<h2>What exactly does Trump want?</h2>The American president is asking for a deal - a new nuclear agreement - with Iran. This is similar in purpose to the old 2015 deal (JCPOA), but with significantly tougher conditions:<ul><li>End or severely curb Iran’s nuclear weapons program — especially uranium enrichment, which Tehran has expanded since the US withdrew from the 2015 deal.</li><li>Prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons or reaching “breakout” capacity.</li><li>Potentially exchange these restrictions for sanctions relief, though Trump’s statements have been inconsistent on the exact terms.</li></ul>Meanwhile, Iran has not formally received or agreed upon the demands by the US but has clarified that Tehran does not accept negotiations "under military threat".<h2>'Tehran ready for dialogue, but if US pushed...'</h2>Iran's mission to the United States said on Wednesday (Jan 28) that Tehran is ready for dialogues with Washington - but with mutual respect. This was said on X in response to US President Donald Trump's post about a US naval armada heading toward Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;“In the last time the US blundered into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, it squandered over $7 trillion and lost more than 7,000 American lives,” the mission said in a post on X, adding: “Iran stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests,” it said. “But if pushed, it will defend itself and respond like never before.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, an Iranian deputy foreign minister said that negotiations with the US are not Tehran's priority right now. Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran’s priority is “200 percent readiness to defend” the country and warned that any limited US attack would be met with “an appropriate response.”

US-Iran tensions surge as Trump deploys naval armada, demands tougher nuclear deal limiting uranium enrichment; Iran rejects talks under threat, warns of strong response if attacked amid regional escalation. 

America and Iran are currently on the verge of a full-blown war as the diplomatic tensions have risen, with both sides issuing warnings to each other. US Presient Donald Trump even deployed a large US naval “armada” to the West Asia and warned that time is running out for Iran to accept a deal. The POTUS also explicitly warned of military action if Iran refuses to negotiate or meet the demands of the US. What exactly does Trump want? The American president is asking for a deal - a new nuclear agreement - with Iran. This is similar in purpose to the old 2015 deal (JCPOA), but with significantly tougher conditions: End or severely curb Iran’s nuclear weapons program — especially uranium enrichment, which Tehran has expanded since the US withdrew from the 2015 deal. Prevent Tehran from developing nuclear weapons or reaching “breakout” capacity. Potentially exchange these restrictions for sanctions relief, though Trump’s statements have been inconsistent on the exact terms. Meanwhile, Iran has not formally received or agreed upon the demands by the US but has clarified that Tehran does not accept negotiations "under military threat". 'Tehran ready for dialogue, but if US pushed...' Iran's mission to the United States said on Wednesday (Jan 28) that Tehran is ready for dialogues with Washington - but with mutual respect. This was said on X in response to US President Donald Trump's post about a US naval armada heading toward Iran. “In the last time the US blundered into wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, it squandered over $7 trillion and lost more than 7,000 American lives,” the mission said in a post on X, adding: “Iran stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests,” it said. “But if pushed, it will defend itself and respond like never before.” Meanwhile, an Iranian deputy foreign minister said that negotiations with the US are not Tehran's priority right now. Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran’s priority is “200 percent readiness to defend” the country and warned that any limited US attack would be met with “an appropriate response.”

US-Iran tensions surge as Trump deploys naval armada, demands tougher nuclear deal limiting uranium enrichment; Iran rejects talks under threat, warns of strong response if attacked amid regional escalation.&nbsp;

‘Time is running out’: What EXACTLY does Trump want from Iran in a deal

The nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln is limited to roughly 56 km/h due to massive water drag and hull physics, not a lack of power. Its reactors provide endurance, not racing speed.

Can it go faster than 56 km/h? Why is the 2-nuclear-reactor-powered USS Abraham Lincoln so slow

Maintaining the USS Abraham Lincoln costs millions daily. Between crew salaries, aircraft maintenance, and nuclear overhauls, the financial demands could easily overwhelm a small nation's budget.

Why running a supercarrier like USS Abraham Lincoln could bankrupt small nation

US dominance relies on advanced tech, not just explosives. Through microwave bursts, S-300 hacks, and heavy jamming, the US can remotely destroy or confuse Iranian radar, achieving a 'switch-off' effect before the fight begins.

The ‘switch-off’ button? Is the US capable of stopping Iran’s radar remotely?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated his stark warning against Iran, saying the Islamic Republic will face serious consequences if it attacks Tel Aviv. "Now, it is true - the Iranian axis is trying to recover - but we will not allow it to do so. If Iran makes the grave mistake of attacking Israel, we will respond with a force Iran has never seen before,” Netanyahu said on Tuesday (Jan 27).&nbsp;"President Trump will decide whatever he decides, and the State of Israel will decide whatever it decides. We are closely following developments, and we are prepared for every scenario,” the Israeli PM added.&nbsp;Meanwhile, amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency.<h2>Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries</h2>Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts.<h2>Iran's militia strategy - key elements</h2>The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups.&nbsp;Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Iran of unprecedented retaliation if it attacks Tel Aviv, saying Israel is prepared for all scenarios while closely monitoring US decisions and regional developments globally.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu repeated his stark warning against Iran, saying the Islamic Republic will face serious consequences if it attacks Tel Aviv. "Now, it is true - the Iranian axis is trying to recover - but we will not allow it to do so. If Iran makes the grave mistake of attacking Israel, we will respond with a force Iran has never seen before,” Netanyahu said on Tuesday (Jan 27). "President Trump will decide whatever he decides, and the State of Israel will decide whatever it decides. We are closely following developments, and we are prepared for every scenario,” the Israeli PM added. Meanwhile, amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency. Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts. Iran's militia strategy - key elements The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups. Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu warned Iran of unprecedented retaliation if it attacks Tel Aviv, saying Israel is prepared for all scenarios while closely monitoring US decisions and regional developments globally.

'Will respond with a force Iran has never seen before': Netanyahu warns Tehran, says 'Trump will...'

Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he would urge the European Union to list &nbsp;Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. “The losses suffered by the civilian population during the protests require a clear response,” he wrote on X. In response, Iran summoned the minister for what Tehran described as "irresponsible remarks by Italy’s foreign minister" about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.&nbsp;After the summons, the foreign ministry’s director general for Western Europe warned of what he described as damaging consequences of labelling the Revolutionary Guards and urged Italy to revise what he called ill-considered approaches toward Iran, the reports said.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran's exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi welcomed Tajani's proposal, saying, “I welcome the Italian government’s position on proscribing the IRGC and thank Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani for advancing this in Brussels."<h2>Can EU designate a State Military Force as terrorist group?</h2>Well, the answer is yes. The EU has the right to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. But the decision is possible in strict legal conditions.<h2>IRGC is different</h2>The IRGC is not a non-state militia group like ISIS or Al-Qaeda. It is a formal branch of Iran's armed forces. It is directly embedded in Tehran's state structure. The group is responsible for military, intelligence, and economic activities.&nbsp;If the EU designates the group as a terrorist organisation, it would mean labelling part of a sovereign state’s military as terrorist - and that move will have serious diplomatic and legal consequences.<h2>When can EU designate a group as terror organiation?</h2>As per the EU law, a group can only be placed on the EU terrorist list under these circumstances:<ul><li>The decision is taken by a competent judicial authority.</li><li>The decision is based on terrorist acts, not just political judgment.</li></ul><h2>What would happen if EU designate IRGC as terror group?</h2>If the EU succeeds in doing so, all the IRGC-linked entities in the EU could be criminalised. Any support by the IRGC, even indirect ones, could become illegal. Iran could retaliate by targeting EU forces or interests in response to the act. &nbsp;

Iran’s IRGC warned neighbouring countries that allowing their territory, airspace, or waters to be used against Iran would make them hostile parties, raising regional tensions amid escalating geopolitical conflict.

Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, said that he would urge the European Union to list Iran’s Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organisation. “The losses suffered by the civilian population during the protests require a clear response,” he wrote on X. In response, Iran summoned the minister for what Tehran described as "irresponsible remarks by Italy’s foreign minister" about Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. After the summons, the foreign ministry’s director general for Western Europe warned of what he described as damaging consequences of labelling the Revolutionary Guards and urged Italy to revise what he called ill-considered approaches toward Iran, the reports said. Meanwhile, Iran's exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi welcomed Tajani's proposal, saying, “I welcome the Italian government’s position on proscribing the IRGC and thank Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani for advancing this in Brussels." Can EU designate a State Military Force as terrorist group? Well, the answer is yes. The EU has the right to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. But the decision is possible in strict legal conditions. IRGC is different The IRGC is not a non-state militia group like ISIS or Al-Qaeda. It is a formal branch of Iran's armed forces. It is directly embedded in Tehran's state structure. The group is responsible for military, intelligence, and economic activities. If the EU designates the group as a terrorist organisation, it would mean labelling part of a sovereign state’s military as terrorist - and that move will have serious diplomatic and legal consequences. When can EU designate a group as terror organiation? As per the EU law, a group can only be placed on the EU terrorist list under these circumstances: The decision is taken by a competent judicial authority. The decision is based on terrorist acts, not just political judgment. What would happen if EU designate IRGC as terror group? If the EU succeeds in doing so, all the IRGC-linked entities in the EU could be criminalised. Any support by the IRGC, even indirect ones, could become illegal. Iran could retaliate by targeting EU forces or interests in response to the act.

Iran’s IRGC warned neighbouring countries that allowing their territory, airspace, or waters to be used against Iran would make them hostile parties, raising regional tensions amid escalating geopolitical conflict.

IRGC as terrorist group? Can EU designate a state military force as terrorist organisation?

Amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency.<h2>Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries</h2>Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts.<h2>Iran's militia strategy - key elements</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vs-iran-america-offers-15mn-in-reward-for-information-about-the-irgc-s-oil-transfers-details-inside-1769516715631">US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside</a>&nbsp;The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).&nbsp;In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups.&nbsp;Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

IRGC warns neighbouring states that if their soil, airspace, or waters are used against Iran, they will be deemed “hostile,” escalating regional stakes amid rising tensions with the US and allies.

Amid the diplomatic tensions between the US and Iran, an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander warned that neighbouring countries will be “considered hostile” if their region is used by Washington to attack Tehran. This came after a US carrier group arrived in West Asian waters. “Neighboring countries are our friends, but if their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran, they will be considered hostile,” Mohammad Akbarzadeh, political deputy of the IRGC naval forces, was quoted as saying by the Fars news agency. Tehran's militias in neighbouring countries Iran is a nation whose regional strategy in West Asia relies largely on a network of militias and armed groups in Iraq and Yemen. These groups are used by Tehran to project influence, counter the US, and shape outcomes in regional conflicts. Iran's militia strategy - key elements Also read: US vs Iran: America offers $15mn in reward for ‘information about the IRGC's oil transfers’. Details inside The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), which is also known as Popular Mobilisation Units (PMU), is a large umbrella of militias operating within Iraq. Although formally, it's a part of Iraq's security forces, many of its factions are aligned with Iran. They also have deep relations with Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In September 2025, four Iran-aligned Iraqi militias: Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata’ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata’ib al-Imam Ali, were designated as Foreign Terrorist Organisations by the US. America has attributed various attacks on its personnel and facilities in Iraq to these groups. Meanwhile, one of the most prominent pro-Iran militias, Kata’ib Hezbollah, has publicly said that one of its goals is to expel US forces from Iraq. The group also has a history of attacking US targets. Moreover, US authorities and counterterrorism bodies classify it as a terrorist organisation.

IRGC warns neighbouring states that if their soil, airspace, or waters are used against Iran, they will be deemed “hostile,” escalating regional stakes amid rising tensions with the US and allies.

‘If their soil, sky, or waters are used against Iran...’: IRGC’s warning to neighbouring nations, says they’ll be considered ‘hostile’

Israel’s Sa’ar 6 corvettes use advanced C-Dome and Barak 8 systems to defend against missiles. While highly capable, they lack the depth of a US Carrier Strike Group. The US Navy uses a multi-ship Aegis shield, whereas Israel relies on high-tech self-defence.

'Iran vs Israel': Are Israel’s naval warships capable of defending themselves like USS Abraham Lincoln can in case of war?

The USS Abraham Lincoln has deployed to the Middle East using ‘going dark’ tactics to evade Iranian tracking. By switching off AIS and operating in deep waters, the US Navy creates a strategic blind spot for Tehran. 

The ‘Shell Game’ at sea: Is the USS Abraham Lincoln actually where Iran thinks it is?

The USS Abraham Lincoln uses electronic warfare, jamming, and signal spoofing to blind Iranian radar. From ‘ghost’ signals to stealth jets, these tactics mask the fleet’s location and confuse enemy surveillance.

Ghost mode or electronic spoofing? How USS Abraham Lincoln can confuse Iran’s surveillance

The USS Abraham Lincoln has turned off its trackers to evade Iranian detection in the Middle East. While Tehran uses satellites and drones to hunt the ship, the US Navy employs speed, silence, and electronic warfare to stay hidden.

'Hunting a ghost ship': Can Iran find USS Abraham Lincoln without transponders?

In yet another U-turn, US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 26) said that Iran is ready to negotiate a deal even as it continues its brutal crackdown against protesters. Trump's statement is the latest addition to his dillydallying tactics over situation in Iran. Though Trump acknowledged that he has sent US warships near Iran, he did not specify if Washington is planning an attack in the coming days. Stating that situation in Iran is “in flux,” Trump said that Tehran wants to talk and strike a deal. It is not clear what deal was Trump referring to.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We have a big armada next to Iran. Bigger than Venezuela,” Trump said. “They want to make a deal. I know so. They called on numerous occasions. They want to talk,” he added. Backing Trump's statement, US official said, “With regard to Iran, we are open for business. If they want to contact us, and they know what the terms are, then we’re going to have the conversation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/hezbollah-houthis-warn-us-as-warships-move-near-iran-is-trump-uniting-axis-of-resistance-1769477275463">'Total war': Hezbollah, Houthis warn US as warships move near Iran — Is Trump uniting 'Axis of Resistance'?</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-trump-sends-big-armada-next-to-iran-tehran-warns-of-regret-inducing-response-1769488541616/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-trump-sends-big-armada-next-to-iran-tehran-warns-of-regret-inducing-response-1769488541616/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>Trump's U-turn on Iran</h2>After the protest began in Iran, Trump openly supported the people of Iran, and warned Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led authorities of consequences in case of brutal crackdown. Washington then appeared to be supporting exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, but Trump did not endorse him saying he might not be able to garner ground support. The US then hinted at a strike on Tehran but stopped amid ‘dire consequences’ warning from Russia. Soon after, Trump made a major U-turn and said that Iran will not be holding execution of protesters and so he won't be taking action against the regime. He also fanned regime change talks by saying “It's time to look for new leadership in Iran.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/is-the-us-going-to-attack-iran-today-as-uss-abraham-lincoln-and-its-accompanying-destroyers-move-toward-iran-1769451339243">Is the US going to attack Iran today? As USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying destroyers move toward Iran</a><h2>How many have been killed in Iran protest</h2>According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), over 5000 people have died amid administration's brutal crackdown. The regime even announced execution of protesters but stopped because of immense international pressure and scrutiny. Internet was suspended as protest intensified. Iranians took to streets amid collapsing economy in December 2025. The protest that began against falling rate of Iranian Rial intensified soon, with demands to end to the existing regime. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women. Meanwhile, Iranian government also held pro-regime rally with President Masoud Pezeshkian taking part in it and Khamenei sharing pictures and videos of it on social media to claim support of the Iranian people.<h3>Trump's delayed action</h3>Despite widescale killings, Trump has delayed his action on Iran. He had, in the start of the month, said that US is ‘locked and loaded’ and ready to strike Tehran. However, even after his dramatic naval buildup in West Asia, his intentions aren’t clear. While some claim that his real strike plan may be different from what is visible, others say that he is using pressure tactics to solve the matter diplomatically amid fears of destablising the region in case of attack on Tehran.&nbsp;

Trump claimed Iran wants to negotiate a deal despite its violent crackdown on protesters, marking another shift in his Iran policy. While keeping military options open with US warships nearby, he offered talks as protests, deaths and regime pressure continue inside Iran.

In yet another U-turn, US President Donald Trump on Monday (Jan 26) said that Iran is ready to negotiate a deal even as it continues its brutal crackdown against protesters. Trump's statement is the latest addition to his dillydallying tactics over situation in Iran. Though Trump acknowledged that he has sent US warships near Iran, he did not specify if Washington is planning an attack in the coming days. Stating that situation in Iran is “in flux,” Trump said that Tehran wants to talk and strike a deal. It is not clear what deal was Trump referring to. “We have a big armada next to Iran. Bigger than Venezuela,” Trump said. “They want to make a deal. I know so. They called on numerous occasions. They want to talk,” he added. Backing Trump's statement, US official said, “With regard to Iran, we are open for business. If they want to contact us, and they know what the terms are, then we’re going to have the conversation.” Also Read: 'Total war': Hezbollah, Houthis warn US as warships move near Iran — Is Trump uniting 'Axis of Resistance'? https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-tensions-trump-sends-big-armada-next-to-iran-tehran-warns-of-regret-inducing-response-1769488541616/embed Trump's U-turn on Iran After the protest began in Iran, Trump openly supported the people of Iran, and warned Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei-led authorities of consequences in case of brutal crackdown. Washington then appeared to be supporting exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, but Trump did not endorse him saying he might not be able to garner ground support. The US then hinted at a strike on Tehran but stopped amid ‘dire consequences’ warning from Russia. Soon after, Trump made a major U-turn and said that Iran will not be holding execution of protesters and so he won't be taking action against the regime. He also fanned regime change talks by saying “It's time to look for new leadership in Iran.” Also Read: Is the US going to attack Iran today? As USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying destroyers move toward Iran How many have been killed in Iran protest According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), over 5000 people have died amid administration's brutal crackdown. The regime even announced execution of protesters but stopped because of immense international pressure and scrutiny. Internet was suspended as protest intensified. Iranians took to streets amid collapsing economy in December 2025. The protest that began against falling rate of Iranian Rial intensified soon, with demands to end to the existing regime. The demonstrations are the most significant in Iran since a 2022-2023 movement sparked by the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code for women. Meanwhile, Iranian government also held pro-regime rally with President Masoud Pezeshkian taking part in it and Khamenei sharing pictures and videos of it on social media to claim support of the Iranian people. Trump's delayed action Despite widescale killings, Trump has delayed his action on Iran. He had, in the start of the month, said that US is ‘locked and loaded’ and ready to strike Tehran. However, even after his dramatic naval buildup in West Asia, his intentions aren’t clear. While some claim that his real strike plan may be different from what is visible, others say that he is using pressure tactics to solve the matter diplomatically amid fears of destablising the region in case of attack on Tehran.

Trump claimed Iran wants to negotiate a deal despite its violent crackdown on protesters, marking another shift in his Iran policy. While keeping military options open with US warships nearby, he offered talks as protests, deaths and regime pressure continue inside Iran.

'They want to talk': Trump won't strike Iran? US president issues BIG statement after moving warships to West Asia

In modern warfare, a carrier's most dangerous weapon isn't just its jets; it's its Command and Control (C2). The Lincoln acts as a massive floating sensor and communications relay. 

'Decoy for B-2 bomber': Why Trump may be using USS Abraham Lincoln to distract Iran from real strike

The UAE’s decision is rooted in a hard reality: Business vs. Bombs. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are global hubs for finance and tourism. 

USS Abraham Lincoln can't attack Iran? Here's why UAE just banned US strikes from its territorial waters and soil

The USS Abraham Lincoln hosts elite EOD units and Marine aviators, not permanent SEAL teams. These specialised forces provide critical bomb disposal and stealth capabilities globally.

Navy SEALs or other special forces? Which US special forces operate on USS Abraham Lincoln

The USS Abraham Lincoln carries a lethal mix of AIM-120D and AIM-174B missiles. These advanced weapons allow its F-35C and Super Hornet jets to dominate the skies at extreme ranges.

'Not a strike missile': Which is the most powerful missile USS Abraham Lincoln carries

The USS Abraham Lincoln arrived in the Middle East today amid soaring US-Iran tensions. With Tehran threatening 'total war' and 5,900+ dead in protests, the region is on high alert for immediate conflict.

Is the US going to attack Iran today? As USS Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying destroyers move toward Iran

The USS Abraham Lincoln is a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier with a total value exceeding $12 billion (over Rs 1 lakh crore). This single US Navy ship is worth more than the entire GDP of nations like the Maldives, Fiji, and Bhutan, making it a true floating economy.

'Costlier than a Country': Why USS Abraham Lincoln’s total value exceeds the GDP of small nations?

The USS Abraham Lincoln costs $2.5 million daily to patrol near Iran. This covers food, fuel, and repairs for the nuclear carrier and its F-35C fighters, ensuring readiness amid 2026 tensions.

'$2.5 Million a Day': The shocking daily cost to keep USS Abraham Lincoln sailing near Iran

A saturation strike involving hundreds of Iranian missiles poses a severe challenge to the finite ammunition of US Aegis shields in the narrow Persian Gulf.

‘Hundreds of missiles at once’: Can the US protect USS Abraham Lincoln if Iran fires missiles in the Persian Gulf?