Trump ready to ease Iran sanctions for nuclear concessions

US President Donald Trump is ready to ease sanctions against Iran and unfreeze its assets in exchange for concrete steps on Tehran's nuclear program, according to multiple US officials cited by Axios. The proposal emerges as Qatari and Pakistani mediators attempt this week to broker a deal between the two adversaries. Positions remain far apart, with Iran prioritizing talks on the Strait of Hormuz and the US naval blockade, while the Trump administration demands nuclear concessions first. US officials describe indirect talks as "positive and constructive," noting Iran has signaled flexibility on nuclear issues, though disagreements persist over sequencing and commitments. Washington remains skeptical of Iranian promises, citing Tehran's July shelling of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.