In the unpredictable world of international politics, there are few things quite as intriguing as the classic tug-of-war over who gets to push the red button — metaphorically speaking, of course. President Trump is once again gathering his cabinet to strategize over Iran, while the not-so-friendly neighbors on the other side are busy condemning Monday’s strikes for lacking holiday cheer. It appears the President is gearing up to ensure his “peace through strength” approach doesn’t take a vacation, even if the headlines are painting a less than festive picture.

As we shift our focus to the Middle East, where camels are probably relenting over the drama, it’s clear the President’s tactics have been aimed at keeping Iran cozy, yet cautious. Operation Epic Fury sounds like a name borrowed from a superhero comic, but its success is no joke, allegedly clipping the wings of Iran’s economy while ensuring their negotiations are anything but the usual tea party. With the President’s plan of action, the US aims to remain a few steps ahead, ensuring Iran doesn’t get anywhere near the nuclear dream they’ve been harboring.

Now, Iran might have been playing cat and mouse with the idea of laying mines during talks. This bold move, which some might call playing with fire, could have easily set off the kind of fireworks nobody wants at a peace negotiation. Yet President Trump seems to be channeling his inner patience guru, signaling a preparedness to walk if the deal begins to smell a bit fishy. His stance has kept military plans in the drawer but ensures they are ready to spring out at a moment’s notice — an approach that’s meant to leave Iran wary.

Then there’s the matter of the $24 billion in frozen funds that Iran would love to see thawed. Despite Iran’s glee at the thought, everyone knows that this tempting sum is more likely to fund less-than-peaceful hobbies than to bolster the Iranian economy. The list of demands from Iran is much like Santa’s wish list, only nobody’s rushing to check it twice. Instead, the President’s focus remains on making sure Iran is truly willing to abandon its nuclear ambitions before any presents—or funds—are handed out.

Finally, we come to the comedic farce that is Iran’s negotiation tactics, where key players remain as elusive as a mirage in the desert. With Supreme Leader Mushaba Kamani apparently playing a game of hide and seek, negotiations are increasingly resembling a spy thriller rather than serious diplomacy. It’s like trying to sign a lease with a ghost writer, and one can only hope President Trump has ensured any deal is written in indelible ink. Until Iran shows they’re worth trusting, this international chess game will continue, with Washington vigilant in turning their pieces over claims until then.