Red Zone sealed as Islamabad gears up for Iran-US talks

Islamabad: Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have announced two local holidays on Thursday and Friday to bolster security ahead of anticipated peace talks between Iran and the United States.

Given the high stakes of these discussions, extensive security protocols are in effect, coordinated across all law enforcement and security agencies.

A hotel in the Red Zone has been exclusively reserved for the delegations, cleared of guests on government orders, and surrounded by intensified security.

Sources indicate that the federal government instructed the hotel management to request guests vacate. The management notified guests via letter that the venue was requisitioned for a key event until Sunday evening.

A notice from the Deputy Commissioner Islamabad’s office declares April 9 and 10 (Thursday and Friday) as local holidays throughout the Islamabad Capital Territory, excluding essential services such as the Municipal Corporation Islamabad, Capital Development Authority, Islamabad Capital Territory administration, Islamabad Police, Islamabad Electric Supply Corporation, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, and hospitals.

Police facilitation centers for driving licenses and similar services will also shut to the public.

State-run rescue services and hospitals are on high alert, directed to stay ready with full staff and necessary supplies, sources noted.

Multiple meetings occurred in the twin cities on Wednesday to assess security plans and outline strategies, with additional sessions planned late into the night.

The Red Zone will stay fully sealed while delegates are in the capital, sources said. The high-security area from Faisal Avenue onward will also be closed as needed, based on delegation movements.

Certain entry points to the capital will shut down. Security measures mirror or exceed those during the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad in October 2024.

Another notice closes Trails 2, 3, 4, 5, and the trail behind Saidpur Village to the public on April 9 and 10.

Rawalpindi administration soon followed with its own holiday declaration.

While the Pakistan Secretariat, Islamabad, and all federal government offices close on Thursday (April 9), staff must work remotely from home and remain in station.

Friday (April 10) follows the existing four-day workweek as a closed day.

Delegations will receive VVIP protocol per the Blue Book for travel, lodging, and meetings. Police, paramilitary, and other forces will adhere to Blue Book guidelines and SOPs. Dedicated routes are set for delegation movements.

Islamabad police continue routine searches, now augmented by heightened intelligence surveillance. Security ramps up at bus stands like Faizabad, Pirwadhai, and Chongi No 26, plus slums and wooded spots near the high-security zone, including the Red Zone.

To aid motorcycle transfers, the Excise and Taxation Department offices stay open April 9-12, even on holidays.