Roads sealed in Islamabad, lockdown-like situation… Trump going to Pakistan for a deal?

Islamabad: Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, suddenly imposed strict security measures on Sunday. Several major steps were taken in the city in preparation for a possible second round of peace talks between the United States and Iran. Although the meeting has not yet been officially confirmed by the United States, Iran, or Pakistan, the situation clearly indicates that preparations are underway for major talks.

A high-level US delegation’s security team has arrived in Islamabad. US President Donald Trump has also stated that he may visit Islamabad, but only if the situation is ripe for signing an agreement. It is not yet clear which representatives will be present on the US side this time.

Traveling from the US to Pakistan typically takes a day. On April 11th, US Vice President JD Vance took approximately 17 hours to reach Islamabad on Air Force Two. According to reports, two US cargo planes landed at Nur Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, indicating that a large US delegation is about to arrive in Islamabad. Such planes carry essential supplies before the arrival of VVIPs. US Vice President JD Vance also landed at Nur Khan Air Base on April 12th for peace talks.

Islamabad Police have made significant traffic changes in Islamabad
. Due to the arrival of the foreign delegation, the Red Zone and Extended Red Zone have been completely closed. All movement in these areas has been restricted. People have been asked to use alternative routes and cooperate with security.

Traffic has been halted between Islamabad and Rawalpindi
, a 15-kilometer stretch. Transport services have been suspended in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Rawalpindi District Administration has ordered a halt to all forms of transport. However, it later stated that private vehicles will be exempt from this arrangement. The Islamabad District Administration has also suspended heavy and public transport until further notice, causing significant inconvenience to residents. It is being said that these security restrictions may remain in place for up to 10 days.

Major hotels in Islamabad have stopped accepting bookings
. The luxury Mövenpick Hotel has no vacant rooms for this week. During the last round of talks, the same hotel was packed with media personnel. Meanwhile, the Serena Hotel, which hosted the first round of talks between the US and Iran, is no longer accepting new bookings. Furthermore, guests staying at the Serena and Marriott hotels have been asked to relocate starting Sunday night, suggesting that these hotels are being vacated for a specific purpose.

When will the next round of talks take place?
The first round of talks ended on April 12th. Since then, Pakistan, the US, and Iran have been exchanging messages. Iranian officials say that direct talks have been preferable, as the involvement of a third party can often lead to misunderstandings. A date for the second round of talks has not yet been finalized, but reports suggest the meeting could take place as early as Tuesday.