Iran has a very old, intricate culture and a historical memory of being powerful. It's one thing when people or countries that have equivalent power trade barbs. When one side has a lot more power, I think it's helpful for that side to be as gracious as possible at all times, even through the worst situations, and even without backing down.
I'm sure that you understand that pride can make people do things that are counterproductive. I'm not talking about humoring the Iranian government; humoring people is not respectful.
