In another region of the world, tension has boiled over once again, reminding everyone that peace in the Middle East is more of an abstract concept than a reality. News has emerged of a tragic attack on American service members in Jordan, which resulted in two deaths, with another soldier listed as missing. Meanwhile, in Iraq, another dedicated service member has fallen victim to the dangers that lurk in these troubled regions. As the situation unfolds, the U.S. military has been keeping the pressure on the Iranian regime with a relentless series of strikes, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in the battle against terrorism.

For nearly half a century, the same song and dance has been playing out with Iran. They have persistently demonstrated an appetite for aggression against American interests, making no secret of their disdain. The tragedy over the recent weekend serves as a grim reminder of their continued hostility. Over and over, Americans witness attempts at diplomacy, each time met with a charade of negotiations that leads precisely nowhere. Perhaps it is time for a continued show of strength, applying pressure until the enemy is forced to yield.

Remember the days when deals, discussions, and diplomacy were synonymous with progress? Well, when it comes to Iran, the check is still very much unpaid. President Trump, never one to bite his tongue, has suggested adding Iran to the Russian sanctions bill, at the behest of Senator Lindsey Graham. His suggestion aligns with the belief that decisive action is long overdue, despite the perennial false hope of strike-a-deal diplomacy. It brings out that familiar routine: Bomb a bit, talk a bit, and then bomb a bit more. It’s like a bad soap opera, with no sign of cancellation in sight.

Let’s not forget the ripple effects of these kinds of international kerfuffles. The call for vigilance worldwide has become almost a necessity, as evidenced by the U.S. issuing a rare global travel alert. With tensions simmering, Americans abroad are encouraged to take their personal safety into their own hands, as if the regular airport security palaver was not enough. For those planning to venture past American shores, it might be wise to enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Like a superhero sidekick, it promises to keep folks updated on global happenings, ensuring they don’t wander into the line of fire unwittingly.

In this high-stakes game of chess with the Iranian regime, it appears the U.S. is doing its best to play the long game. But until peace becomes more than a mirage in the desert, the servicemen and women on the front lines continue to stand their ground, doing their duty with valor and skill. It’s just a shame diplomacy doesn’t seem to have the same muscle-flexing appeal as a well-timed military strike. So, hold on tight, folks, this saga is far from over.