In the ever-dramatic theater that is Washington, D.C., President Trump is preparing for yet another high-stakes cabinet meeting. Instead of the picturesque backdrop of Camp David, the meeting will be set in the less scenic but more conveniently located White House. Why the change in venue? A little bird called “possible bad weather” whispered it into the president’s Twitter feed. This gathering is all about tackling the touchy subject of negotiations with Iran, a nation that’s become the very definition of a difficult neighbor.

So, what’s got Iran ruffled this time? They’re accusing the United States of violating a ceasefire. Apparently, they took offense to the U.S. military carrying out what has been called “defensive strikes.” Defensive indeed! These strikes targeted missile launch sites and Iranian boats allegedly trying to lay mines. You know, just the typical weekend activity for a nation that’s had its fair share of disagreements with the U.S. It’s a bit like telling the bully next door to stop throwing rocks at your window while still crouching behind your front door with a garden hose, just in case.

Now, let’s consider Iran’s latest demand: a hefty $24 billion in frozen funds as a part of any deal to end the war. In the world of international diplomacy, some might call this a “bold ask.” However, Republicans like Ted Cruz are throwing cautious glances across the aisle, warning that giving in to such demands is akin to giving a cookie to a toddler throwing a tantrum—it’s bound to encourage more bad behavior. But President Trump is nothing if not confident, and he’s got Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, backing him up, asserting that the administration is either going to get a great deal or none at all.

Amidst this stew of international intrigue, President Trump must reconcile his administration’s desire for peace with the less-than-cooperative antics of the current Iranian regime. There’s a smorgasbord of issues on the table beyond the immediate Iranian dilemma. From the economy to post-war planning for the Gaza Strip, the administration is juggling more balls than a circus performer. There’s even mention of a task force devoted to the thrilling subject of eliminating fraud. One can imagine the sort of tizzy that could raise among folks who like to get their thrills from backdoor politicking than spreadsheet reviewing.

As the meeting commences, one can’t help but wonder at the skeptics who seem to have short memories. The idea that Iran was never a hop, skip, and jump away from nuclear capabilities might seem utterly laughable to those who’ve been paying attention. Enrichment talks have been a sideshow for a while, with bit parts played by cameras that mysteriously malfunction and a lack of solid inspections. Yet, don’t mention returning to the heyday of JCPOA without eliciting a groan from those tired of trusting an untrustworthy player on the world stage. If anything is clear, it’s that this melodrama isn’t winding down any time soon.