Tight security in Islamabad amid US-Iran peace talks

Islamabad Police issue a traffic advisory announcing diversions on major arteries, including the Islamabad Expressway and Srinagar Highway, while public transport services on Expressway were temporarily suspended

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-April 11th, 2026) The strict security arrangements and extensive traffic restrictions were enforced across the Federal capital on Saturday as US Vice President JD Vance arrived to participate in key US-Iran peace talks.

Islamabad Police issued a traffic advisory announcing diversions on major arteries, including the Islamabad Expressway and Srinagar Highway, while public transport services on the Expressway were temporarily suspended. Authorities also directed transporters to avoid parking at bus stops and loops.

The Red Zone and Extended Red Zone were completely sealed for all types of traffic, with access to several sensitive areas restricted as part of heightened security measures.

Major routes affected included Kashmir Chowk via Club Road towards Zero Point, Srinagar Highway from Zero Point to Serena Chowk, Shakar Parian Road from Chand Tara Chowk to Seventh Avenue, Jinnah Avenue from Khayaban Chowk to Blue Area, and Margalla Road from Faisal Chowk to Trail 3.

In preparation for the visit, Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf and Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi reviewed security arrangements at multiple points along the designated VIP route.

Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured US Charge d’Affaires Natalie Baker of comprehensive security measures for visiting delegations. Officials said all necessary steps had been taken to ensure the safety of participants in the high-level negotiations.

The talks are being held against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran, following weeks of heightened tensions. The temporary truce is aimed at halting major hostilities and paving the way for broader negotiations.

Pakistan is expected to play a key role in facilitating dialogue aimed at turning the temporary ceasefire into a more durable peace arrangement.