I think the important point here is the influence and wishes of Iran's clerical leaders, who actually rule the country. They want a "less confrontational approach"...for the time being. We know they approve of Ahmedinijad but he is like the gung-ho mafia apprentice that lets his enthusiasm get in the way of his prudence. When Ahmedinejad is gone Iran will be the same. The face and persona of it's President will be different.

Similar to the new Russian president, Medvedev. The status quo will remain in tact.