Pakistan tightens security as Islamabad hosts high-stakes US–Iran peace talks

Pakistan is moving forward with extensive preparations for high-level negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad, aimed at transforming a fragile two-week ceasefire into a durable and lasting peace.

Chairing a review meeting on security and administrative arrangements in the federal capital, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed authorities to ensure foolproof security and exceptional hospitality for all foreign delegations arriving for the talks.

Officials decided that Islamabad’s Red Zone will be fully sealed during the negotiations, with access strictly limited to authorized personnel.

A dedicated control room has also been set up at the Interior Ministry to oversee and coordinate all arrangements.

The talks are scheduled for Saturday in Islamabad following an invitation extended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to both sides after facilitating a temporary ceasefire.

The recent escalation in the Middle East reportedly began on February 28, involving coordinated strikes that targeted Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure, resulting in heavy casualties. In response, Tehran disrupted key maritime routes and carried out retaliatory actions across the region.

Hostilities between the United States and Iran came to a halt on April 8 after Pakistan announced a two-week ceasefire, which has since been widely acknowledged for its diplomatic impact.

Washington is reportedly bringing a 15-point proposal focusing on issues such as Iran’s enriched uranium program, ballistic missile activity, sanctions relief, and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran, meanwhile, has presented a 10-point counterproposal demanding control over the strait, transit toll arrangements, an end to regional military operations, and full sanctions relief.

The international community has praised Pakistan’s role in facilitating the ceasefire and supporting diplomatic engagement between the two sides.

The US delegation will be led by Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The Iranian delegation is expected to be headed by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Ahead of the high-profile “Islamabad talks,” authorities have also announced public holidays in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on April 9 and 10, with all public and private educational institutions and offices in the twin cities remaining closed.