Pakistan prepares for high-stakes US–Iran talks in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is moving ahead with extensive preparations for high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, with discussions expected to focus on turning a fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement.

Chairing a review meeting on security and administrative arrangements, Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi instructed authorities to ensure foolproof security measures along with exceptional hospitality for all foreign delegations attending the talks.

Officials have decided to completely seal the Red Zone during the negotiations, allowing entry only to authorized personnel.

A dedicated control room has also been established at the Interior Ministry to monitor all arrangements in real time.

Islamabad is scheduled to host the crucial dialogue on Saturday, following an invitation extended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to both sides after facilitating the ceasefire.

The recent conflict in the Middle East reportedly began on February 28, involving coordinated strikes that escalated tensions and resulted in significant casualties and infrastructure damage. In response, Iran disrupted key maritime routes and launched retaliatory strikes across the region.

Hostilities between the United States and Iran reportedly concluded on April 8 with the announcement of a two-week ceasefire by the Pakistani leadership, which has been widely acknowledged by the international community for its mediating role.

Traffic police issues special traffic plan for ahead of foreign delegations’ arrival

The Islamabad Traffic Police has issued a special traffic management plan for April 11 and 12 in view of the expected arrival of foreign delegations in the federal capital.

The plan includes multiple diversions on key arteries at different times to ensure smooth flow of traffic and security arrangements.

According to police officials, citizens have been advised to use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience during the implementation of diversions. Special travel routes have also been designated for commuters using the GT Road.

Traffic coming from Peshawar to Rawalpindi will be diverted through Faisal Turn, Chakri, Chak Beli Road, and Rawat Road.

Similarly, travelers moving from Lahore towards Peshawar have been directed to use Rawat, Chak Beli Road, Chakri, and the Taxila Motorway.

Commuters traveling from G-5, F-6, and G-6 sectors towards Rawalpindi will be diverted to Ninth Avenue, while those moving from Faisal Avenue towards Zero Point will also be rerouted via Ninth Avenue.

Residents traveling from Bhara Kahu to Rawalpindi have been advised to use Korang Road, Bani Gala, Lehtrar Road, and GT Road.

Meanwhile, commuters from Rawalpindi to Islamabad are instructed to use Sadar Road and proceed via Ninth Avenue.

Authorities further stated that the Expressway from Zero Point to Faisal Avenue and Koral Chowk will remain closed for all types of traffic from both directions. Travelers from Colonel Sher Khan Road towards Faisal Avenue have been advised to use Stadium Road.

In addition, a complete ban on heavy traffic will remain in place across the city on both days, while all entry and exit points of the Red Zone will remain fully sealed for security reasons.

Officials have urged citizens to cooperate with traffic authorities and plan their journeys in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.