Summary US-Iran talks begin in Islamabad from April 10, with tight security, Red Zone lockdown, Naqvi-US envoy meeting, and arrival of global delegations and media.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Following a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, negotiations between the two countries are set to begin in Islamabad from April 10.
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh stated that the Iranian delegation will be led by Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the US delegation will include Vice President JD Vance, advisor Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner.
On this occasion, authorities in Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi have announced a two-day public holiday.
Participants in the negotiations are being accommodated in a five-star hotel located in the Red Zone. The district administration has expanded the Red Zone boundaries from Zero Point to Faisal Mosque.
The Red Zone includes key government buildings such as Parliament House, Aiwan-e-Sadr, Prime Minister House, and the Diplomatic Enclave, where foreign embassies are situated.
According to an Interior Ministry official, security control of the Red Zone will remain with the military, while Rangers and police personnel will also be deployed.
Also read: US, Iran delegations to arrive in Pakistan today for crucial talks
From a security standpoint, only official vehicles will be allowed entry into the Red Zone. Employees of federal ministries located in the area have been directed to work from home during this period.
Due to the holidays in the twin cities, schools and colleges remain closed, while hearings in the Supreme Court, Federal Constitutional Court, Islamabad High Court, and district courts will not take place.
A special traffic plan has also been devised for Islamabad, under which heavy traffic has been restricted from entering the city.
Islamabad Highway and Srinagar Highway will be temporarily closed when foreign delegations travel from the airport to their hotel.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has postponed its protest rally in Rawalpindi for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, stating that a new date will be announced soon.
Section 144 has been imposed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, banning gatherings of five or more people.
Separately, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with US Ambassador Netaly Baker to discuss the Middle East situation and welcomed the ceasefire, with Pakistan’s diplomatic role being appreciated.
During the meeting, arrangements for the upcoming high-level talks in Islamabad were also reviewed.
Mohsin Naqvi stated that JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner will attend as special guests, and a comprehensive plan has been prepared to ensure foolproof security for all foreign participants.
The US Ambassador praised Pakistan’s sincere role in facilitating diplomatic efforts.
It is also reported that international media representatives are arriving in Pakistan to cover the negotiations, with more than 50 journalists from various countries applying for visas.
Arrangements are likely to be made at the Convention Centre or Pak-China Centre.
