Islamabad locked down as envoys arrive for talks
Large parts of Islamabad remained under tight security lockdown for more than a week as uncertainty persisted over a second round of talks between the United States and Iran.
Key roads were sealed and the Red Zone, housing government buildings and diplomatic missions, was under strict security, while businesses in the Blue Area faced disruptions.
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner were expected to arrive for discussions, but Iranian officials said no direct talks were planned.
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi is in Islamabad for meetings with Pakistani officials as mediation efforts continue.
Police officers stand guard near the Serena Hotel, the venue for expected US-Iran talks, in Islamabad’s Red Zone on 25 April 2026. Aamir QURESHI / AFP