Iran's Supreme Leader has rejected renewed talks with the United States over the country's nuclear program, criticizing what he sees as coercive and predetermined negotiations. Despite ongoing indirect discussions with Western nations and the possibility of prisoner exchanges, experts warn that Iran's confrontational approach and diminishing regional influence could increase the risk of conflict. While Iran insists its nuclear activities are for civilian purposes, international agencies have raised concerns about uranium enrichment nearing weapons-grade levels. The Iranian leadership appears to be pursuing a strategy of crisis management, seeking to maintain leverage without provoking direct military action, as communication channels with the West remain open but fragile.