Web Desk: Authorities in Islamabad shut down access to the high-security Red Zone on Monday and directed offices and educational institutions to shift to remote operations, as foreign delegations arrived for anticipated negotiations between the United States and Iran.
Police said entry into both the Red Zone and its extended perimeter would remain suspended for all traffic throughout the day. Officials advised government and private offices, along with schools located in the red zone, to adopt work-from-home arrangements to minimise movement.
The restrictions come as Islamabad prepares to host high-level diplomatic engagements, prompting heightened security and logistical measures across the city.
Advance teams have already reached Islamabad, landing at Nur Khan Airbase before being escorted under tight security to designated high-security locations. Sources indicated that multiple US aircraft transported personnel involved in the upcoming discussions.
Authorities expect additional arrivals in the coming days, with some delegations potentially using Islamabad International Airport.
Security has been significantly reinforced, with a multi-layered deployment across Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi. Police established checkpoints, filtration points and dedicated patrol units, supported by reserve and rapid-response forces.
More than 10,000 security personnel, including elite commandos and trained marksmen, have been deployed to safeguard routes. Officials also restricted parking along designated corridors and increased rooftop surveillance along major arteries.
In Rawalpindi, a parallel security plan has been activated, involving thousands of officers, including snipers positioned on rooftops and specialized units tasked with rapid response.
Authorities closed dozens of entry points leading դեպի the High Security Zone, including the Red Zone, using barriers and controlled access points. Key routes from Koral to Faizabad have been secured, with markets, wedding halls and shops along these stretches ordered shut.
Traffic officials said movement would be halted temporarily during the passage of official convoys, while alternate routes have been issued to ease disruption for residents.
Several hiking trails in Islamabad, including routes near the Margalla Hills and Saidpur village, have been closed until further notice.
Meanwhile, luxury hotels in the capital have been cleared to accommodate visiting dignitaries, with guests asked to vacate rooms ahead of the delegations’ arrival.
Security agencies have deployed bomb disposal teams for technical sweeps, alongside plainclothes personnel assigned to intelligence gathering. Officers on duty have been instructed to follow strict protocols, including limitations on mobile phone use and mandatory anti-riot gear.
The sweeping measures underscore Islamabad’s role as a potential venue for sensitive diplomatic engagement. If the anticipated talks proceed, the developments could mark a significant step in efforts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran.
