US advance team arrives as Pakistan prepares for Iran talks
Heavy security sweeps across Pakistan’s capital as high-stakes negotiations resume amid unresolved tensions and deep mistrust
ISLAMABAD (MNTV) — An advance delegation from the United States has arrived in Islamabad ahead of an expected second round of negotiations with Iran, as Pakistani authorities imposed sweeping security measures across the capital in preparation for high-level diplomatic engagement.
Officials in Islamabad and Rawalpindi moved to seal off key government zones, including the Red Zone, halting all traffic and restricting civilian movement as foreign delegations begin to arrive.
According to Geo News report, authorities said the closure would remain in place until further notice, urging residents to use alternate routes and cooperate with security personnel.
Public life in the twin cities has been significantly disrupted, with both public and private transport services suspended. Heavy transport has also been halted, while district administrations issued directives limiting movement without providing detailed explanations, reflecting the sensitivity surrounding the upcoming talks.
Security forces have been placed on maximum alert, with more than 10,000 personnel deployed across Rawalpindi alone. Hundreds of checkpoints have been established, supported by surveillance systems, intelligence-based operations, and continuous patrols by specialized units, including commandos and rapid response teams.
Authorities said the measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of visiting delegations and preventing any potential threats, as Pakistan positions itself as a central mediator in ongoing efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran.
While no official schedule for the talks has been confirmed, preparations suggest negotiations could take place in the coming days. The upcoming round follows earlier discussions in Islamabad that ended without agreement, leaving key issues unresolved.
Pakistan has intensified diplomatic efforts since brokering a temporary ceasefire earlier this month, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military leadership engaging regional actors to sustain dialogue and prevent further escalation.
The broader conflict began after US and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February, triggering a rapid regional escalation that included retaliatory Iranian actions and disruptions to global energy routes. The fallout has placed additional urgency on diplomatic efforts to stabilize the situation.
Despite signs of engagement, significant gaps remain between the two sides. Iranian officials have acknowledged limited progress but emphasized that fundamental disagreements persist, particularly over nuclear policy, sanctions, and broader security concerns.
US President Donald Trump has also indicated that discussions are ongoing, describing them as positive while warning Iran against exerting pressure during negotiations.
The situation remains fluid, with Pakistan maintaining heightened security and diplomatic coordination as it prepares to host another critical round of talks that could shape the trajectory of the ongoing crisis.
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