In any discussion of global affairs, one might think that understanding high-stakes negotiations involving nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles would require nuance and deep strategic thinking. However, thanks to recent events and the clarity provided by certain leaders, even a seventh-grader could grasp the absurdity of the current situation with Iran. It appears that while President Trump is offering overtures to Iran to relinquish its nuclear enrichment capabilities, Iran seems to be more interested in expanding its ballistic missile arsenal. These aren’t your average fireworks; they’re missiles capable of reaching Israel, nearby friends, and potentially even the United States in a few years. If this doesn’t sound like the setup to an action-packed disaster movie, then what does?

The fearless leader of the free world, President Trump, has admirably imposed a firm 60-day ultimatum on Iran. And promptly on the 61st day, Israel, under the determined Prime Minister Netanyahu, took matters into its own hands with preemptive strikes. One can’t help but admire the timing. Iran continues its saber-rattling, chanting “Death to America” and others, while secretly, or not-so-secretly, continuing its own military buildup.

Choosing to ignore Iran’s ballistic missile endeavors would require a great deal of head-scratching if not outright denial. The so-called “deal” that was floated around before Israel’s strikes seemed more like an entry on the wishlists of those who still believe the bogeyman is just a figment of imagination. While some critics might argue this escalation could plunge the region into further conflict, let’s not forget history’s lesson: being firm and resolute prevents wars better than any peace treaty rooted in appeasement. After all, the world has already witnessed the perils of underestimating determined foes – just ask the countries that faced aggression in the last century.

Talk about allies you can count on, or not, one can’t help but chuckle when imagining which military-backed Arab country might jump on the Iran bandwagon. Perhaps there’s a secret admirer out there, but the rest would prefer steering clear, keeping their sand and camels safe from missile showers. The truth remains: strength deters aggression, and history shall continue to repeat itself until those wishing for peace through inaction realize that peace sometimes needs a little backup firepower.

Now, if the notion of leaving Iran to its devices to avert conflict seems appealing, a quick thought experiment underlines the fallacy of such idealistic thinking. Imagine if the world’s strongmen didn’t rise to the challenges at hand. Without the likes of Netanyahu or Trump, Iran, unbridled and unchecked, would only grow bolder, potentially wreaking havoc on not just its immediate neighborhood, but on global stability. The world could look very different, and not in a good way. Yet, with steadfast leaders refusing to bow to mediocrity and maintaining their stance on peace through strength, the hope for stability amidst the chaos remains possible.