ISLAMABAD, April 19: Pakistani authorities have implemented extensive security measures in Islamabad and Rawalpindi amid the possibility of a second round of US–Iran talks, despite no official confirmation.
The heightened alert follows rare direct talks held on April 11–12, which ended without agreement.
Pakistan has since intensified diplomatic efforts to facilitate further negotiations, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visiting Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye, and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir traveling to Iran to build consensus.
Security preparations are particularly focused on Rawalpindi, where over 10,000 police personnel have been deployed and more than 600 checkpoints established.
A red alert has been declared, especially around Nur Khan Airbase and Islamabad International Airport. Authorities plan to seal sensitive areas near these locations from Sunday midnight.
The measures are partly driven by the possibility of a visit by US President Donald Trump for a potential agreement signing.
Strict restrictions have been enforced, including a ban on drone flights, pigeon flying, and aerial firing.
Police will also be stationed on rooftops to enhance surveillance.
Key neighborhoods such as New Town, Sadiqabad, and Chaklala face additional controls, including the closure of restaurants, markets, parks, hostels, and various businesses until further notice.
In Islamabad, security has been tightened along sensitive routes, with building owners required to obtain security clearances and follow strict guidelines.
Parking is prohibited, and unauthorized individuals are barred from entering these areas. Hotels and guesthouses must maintain detailed guest records and report them daily to authorities.
Residents have been urged to report suspicious activities, while movement on rooftops and balconies is restricted.
Although reports suggested talks might occur soon, officials have dismissed claims of imminent negotiations.
The current US–Iran ceasefire is set to expire on April 22, adding urgency to the situation.
US negotiators to reach Pak Monday: Trump
US President Donald Trump announced that American negotiators will travel to Pakistan on Monday for a second round of talks with Iran, though he did not specify which officials would attend.
The White House and Vice President JD Vance’s office have not confirmed details.
In a social media post, Trump accused Iran of violating the ceasefire by firing in the Strait of Hormuz and warned that the US could target Iran’s civilian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, if Tehran rejects its proposed deal. Iran has not directly responded to Trump’s remarks.
Tensions remain high as Iran insists it will restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz as long as the US blockade of its ports continues.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, who is also leading negotiations, criticized the US blockade as misguided but reaffirmed Iran’s commitment to diplomacy despite deep mistrust.
The standoff over maritime access has complicated Pakistan’s mediation efforts and cast doubt on extending the fragile ceasefire, which is due to expire this week.
Although Iran briefly signaled reopening the strait after a temporary truce involving regional actors, it reversed course following Trump’s insistence on maintaining the blockade.
Recent incidents—including gunfire targeting vessels and attacks on India-linked ships—have further escalated concerns, causing maritime traffic to stall.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of global oil supply passes, remains a critical pressure point.
Its disruption threatens global energy markets and raises the risk of renewed conflict.
Iran views control over the strait as a key strategic lever, while the US blockade aims to weaken Iran’s economy and force concessions.
Pakistan continues to play a central mediating role, with preparations underway for potential talks in Islamabad.
Security has been tightened, and advance US teams are reportedly already present.
Officials indicate efforts are ongoing to arrange negotiations before the ceasefire expires.
Despite the truce holding so far, the broader conflict—now in its eighth week—has caused significant casualties across Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and the Gulf region.
With both sides maintaining pressure tactics and positions far apart, the coming talks are seen as critical to preventing further escalation and stabilizing the region. (Agencies)
