Tensions between the United States and Iran remain high. Recent data shows a sharp increase in activity at pizzerias near the Pentagon. The District Pizza Palace, located 1.0 mile from the Pentagon, saw activity surge by 250%, while We, The Pizza, at the same distance, recorded a 149% increase, and Extreme Pizza, 0.5 miles away, reached 143%. The "Doughcon" alert level is currently at Level 3. Analysts suggest that the bustling business around the Pentagon often correlates with military and geopolitical developments worldwide.

Underlying disagreements between Iran and the U.S. on key issues such as Iran's nuclear program and American sanctions appear unresolved, and the "war alert" in the Middle East persists. On February 7, Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that Iran would not abandon uranium enrichment or negotiate over its missile program. The same day, the U.S. special representative for Iran boarded the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea and met with the pilot who recently shot down an Iranian drone.

The Pentagon's "pizza index" has previously spiked ahead of U.S. military actions, such as the operation in Venezuela. Separately, U.S. Central Command announced that President Trump’s envoy, along with his son-in-law and the CENTCOM commander, visited the aircraft carrier. Photos posted online showed them observing flight operations and speaking with crew members.

The U.S. has maintained pressure on Iran, deploying several warships, including the Lincoln, to the region. Despite renewed negotiations, the Trump administration continues to bolster its military presence. Talks held indirectly in Muscat on February 6 were described by Trump as "very good," with another round expected soon. However, he reiterated that Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons and warned of "very severe consequences" if no deal is reached. New sanctions targeting entities involved in Iranian oil trade were also announced.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will visit Washington earlier than planned, on February 11, to discuss Iran negotiations with Trump.

Iran’s foreign minister emphasized that uranium enrichment is Iran's legitimate right and is non-negotiable, though Iran is prepared to reduce enrichment levels. He also ruled out discussions on missile technology, calling it part of Iran's defensive strategy. Araghchi warned that if the U.S. launches military strikes, Iran would target American bases in the Middle East, potentially dragging the entire region into conflict. He stated that Iran is prepared for either war or diplomacy but hopes the U.S. chooses the latter. A second round of talks is expected in the coming days.

In related news, the chief of staff of Iran's armed forces declared that the country's air force is on highest alert and fully coordinated with other branches, ready to respond decisively to any threat or aggression.