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Pakistan’s capital has been placed under heightened security as it gears up to host the opening round of direct talks between the United States and Iran, set to commence on April 10, according to state media reports on Thursday.
Military personnel have been deployed across Islamabad’s high-security Red Zone, supported by Rangers and police, with the armed forces taking full control of the area for the duration of the negotiations.
Officials have declared a two-day public holiday in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with schools, universities, and courts remaining closed throughout the talks.
Authorities have also expanded the Red Zone boundaries from Zero Point to Faisal Mosque, encompassing key government sites such as Parliament House, the Presidency, the Prime Minister’s Office, and the Diplomatic Enclave — home to numerous foreign missions.
Entry into the Red Zone will be restricted to authorised vehicles only, while government employees have been instructed to work remotely. Section 144 has been enforced in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi, prohibiting gatherings of more than four people.
Traffic restrictions will be implemented under a special plan, with major routes including Islamabad Highway and Srinagar Highway temporarily closed during the movement of foreign delegations. Heavy vehicles will not be allowed into the city.
Delegations from both nations are expected to stay at a luxury hotel within the Red Zone.
Regarding the delegations, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh stated that Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf will head the Iranian team. Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the US delegation will feature Vice President JD Vance, advisor Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.
Reports also indicate that over 50 journalists from around the world have applied for visas to cover the talks, with media facilities likely to be arranged at either the Convention Centre or the Pak-China Centre.
