Twin cities shut down for US-Iran talks

Authorities have declared local holidays in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Thursday and Friday to ensure tight security for upcoming peace talks between the United States and Iran.

The decision comes amid heightened security concerns due to the high-profile nature of the negotiations. Officials confirmed that extensive arrangements have been put in place, involving police, paramilitary forces and intelligence agencies to safeguard the visiting delegations.

A hotel located in Islamabad’s high-security Red Zone has been requisitioned by the government to host the foreign delegates. Guests were asked to vacate the premises as authorities secured the area and increased surveillance in and around the location.

Pakistan to host US-Iran talks in Islamabad

According to official notifications, all public offices in the capital will remain closed, except essential services such as hospitals, law enforcement, municipal bodies and utility providers. Police facilitation centres will also remain shut, while rescue services and medical facilities have been placed on high alert with staff on standby.

Security measures include sealing the Red Zone and surrounding areas, closing key entry points to the capital and implementing strict movement protocols for the delegations. Authorities indicated that arrangements could match or exceed those implemented during the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit.

Additionally, several hiking trails in Islamabad have been closed to the public, and security has been tightened at transport hubs and sensitive locations across the twin cities.

The Rawalpindi administration has mirrored these measures, announcing similar holidays and restrictions. Government employees will work from home but have been instructed not to leave the city during this period.

The extraordinary measures highlight the significance of the talks, as Pakistan hosts crucial negotiations aimed at sustaining a fragile ceasefire and promoting long-term regional stability.