High Security in Islamabad Ahead of US-Iran Talks Amid Regional Tensions
Security Measures Intensified in Islamabad
Islamabad has transformed into a fortified zone as Pakistan gears up to facilitate significant discussions between the United States and Iran. This comes at a time when a delicate ceasefire is threatened by ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon. On Thursday, security protocols were heightened throughout the capital, with major thoroughfares closed, traffic redirected, and critical areas secured in anticipation of foreign delegations arriving later that evening.
Comprehensive Security Plans Announced
‘Foolproof security’ assured
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi emphasized that extensive measures have been implemented for the visiting dignitaries. Referring to them as “our special guests,” he stated, “A detailed plan has been devised to ensure foolproof security for all foreign visitors in every aspect,” as reported by a local media outlet. Reports indicate that a 30-member team from the US has already arrived in Islamabad to assess the security arrangements firsthand.
City Under Strict Lockdown
City under multi-layered lockdown
To facilitate the movement of delegates, Pakistan has declared a two-day local holiday. The Islamabad Police issued a stringent advisory, stating, “The Red Zone and adjacent areas are off-limits to all traffic except for official vehicles. Citizens are urged to limit unnecessary travel.” Traffic diversions were implemented on major routes, including the Express Highway. The Red Zone, which houses government offices, diplomatic missions, and official residences, has been entirely sealed off. Additionally, roads leading to Nur Khan Airbase and Old Airport Road have been obstructed with containers and barbed wire. Areas such as Shah Khalid Colony, Gulzar-e-Quaid, and Airport Housing Society experienced significant movement restrictions. Security forces in Rawalpindi were also placed on high alert, with hospitals and emergency services on standby.
Delegations Expected to Arrive
Delegations set to arrive
Iran has been sending mixed signals regarding its delegation's attendance in Pakistan. While some reports suggested that Iran would only send a team if Israel ceased its strikes in Lebanon, Iran's Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, confirmed that Tehran would indeed dispatch a delegation. “Despite the skepticism… the Iranian delegation will arrive tonight in Islamabad for serious discussions based on ten proposed points from Iran,” Moghadam stated. On the US side, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt announced that President Trump is sending a team led by Vice President JD Vance, with special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner also expected to join.
However, just hours before the negotiations, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a stern warning regarding the Israeli strikes in Lebanon, indicating that the diplomatic efforts could be jeopardized. “Such actions indicate deception and non-compliance, making negotiations futile. Our hands remain ready. Iran will never abandon its Lebanese allies,” he asserted. These comments followed Israeli airstrikes that reportedly resulted in over 200 fatalities and more than 1,000 injuries in Lebanon.