Islamabad, April 25
Large parts of Pakistan’s capital remained under a strict security lockdown for over a week on Saturday, with uncertainty persisting over a proposed second round of talks between the United States and Iran. Restrictions continue across key areas as diplomatic efforts remain inconclusive.
Authorities have sealed major roads leading into Islamabad, while the high-security Red Zone, which houses government offices and diplomatic missions, remains under tight guard. The adjoining Blue Area has seen deserted markets, supply shortages in cafes, and disruptions in public transport, leaving commuters stranded.
Residents have been facing prolonged uncertainty, particularly in a city where many people travel to their hometowns over weekends. This is the second such lockdown in recent weeks. Islamabad was earlier sealed on April 11 during initial talks between the US and Iranian delegations that ended without an agreement. Restrictions were briefly lifted before being reimposed in anticipation of further engagement.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad late Friday for meetings with the Pakistani leadership. He was received by senior officials, including Army chief Syed Asim Munir, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
However, there is no clarity on whether direct talks between Washington and Tehran will take place during the visit. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said that no meeting is planned and that Iran’s observations would be conveyed through Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the United States indicated that officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, may travel to Pakistan for possible engagement, though they have not yet arrived.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar expressed hope for meaningful dialogue to promote regional peace and stability. Officials said efforts are ongoing to facilitate discussions, with a US logistics and security team already present in the city. The situation follows earlier rounds of talks that did not produce a breakthrough, prompting renewed diplomatic efforts to ease tensions and explore the possibility of further negotiations.
