Naqvi, US envoy review security for expected US-Iran talks in Islamabad

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday met US Chargé d’Affaires to Pakistan Natalie Baker at the US Embassy to discuss security arrangements ahead of the expected US-Iran talks in Islamabad, according to the interior ministry.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed the overall security situation and detailed arrangements with Baker expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts and its role in ensuring a secure environment amid regional sensitivities.

The statement said that senior officials, including FIA Director General Dr Usman Anwar, Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf, Inspector General Police Ali Nasir Rizvi, and Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon, were also present.

Naqvi said that “special security arrangements have been made for all distinguished guests” attending the talks, adding that Pakistan is fully prepared to ensure foolproof security, the ministry added. He expressed hope for the successful conduct of the upcoming round of talks in Islamabad.

Pakistan took centre stage when it brokered a 14-day ceasefire between the US and Iran, followed by high-stakes talks in Islamabad attended by senior delegations from the two countries. Although the talks did not yield the desired results, the ceasefire remains intact, with confidence-building measures being pursued to secure a permanent truce.

A second round of talks is expected to be held in Islamabad, as US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that his representatives are set to arrive in Islamabad Monday evening.

Twin cities on alert

Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have put in place sweeping security and administrative measures ahead of the expected next round of US-Iran talks in the federal capital, effectively placing the twin cities on high alert.

The Red Zone has been sealed, with all public and private offices and schools instructed to shift online, while government operations have been moved to remote working.

Heavy and public transport across Islamabad and Rawalpindi has been suspended until further notice, while the Metro Bus service between Saddar and Pak Secretariat has also been halted.

Major roads, including key arteries in the Red Zone and surrounding areas, have been closed or restricted, with extensive diversion plans implemented to manage traffic flow. Universities have shifted classes online and postponed exams, while hostels, hotels, and guest houses in sensitive areas have been ordered shut.

Security has been significantly tightened with the deployment of over 10,000 police personnel in Rawalpindi and around 18,000 security personnel expected overall, including police, Rangers, and Frontier Corps. More than 600 checkpoints have been established, with strict monitoring at entry and exit points.

Sensitive areas around Nur Khan Airbase and Islamabad International Airport have also been sealed, alongside bans on drones, aerial firing, and pigeon flying, as authorities describe the measures as part of foolproof security arrangements for visiting foreign delegations.