Iran Considers Halting Nuclear Program to Ease US Tensions: Report

• Iran may suspend or shut down parts of its nuclear program to de-escalate tensions with the US, according to The New York Times.
• Iranian officials indicated a willingness to consider new terms, potentially including transferring enriched uranium to Russia, despite public opposition to stopping enrichment.
• US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are set to meet in Istanbul this week for direct talks.
• Mediators from Turkey, Qatar, Oman, and Iraq are involved, with Jared Kushner also expected to attend some sessions.
• Iran limits talks to nuclear issues, rejecting US demands for discussions on ballistic missiles and regional proxy support, while warning against any US strike.

Why It Matters: Iran is reportedly open to significant nuclear program concessions to de-escalate tensions with the US.