Islamabad Under Lockdown as High-Stakes US-Iran Peace Talks Begin

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(NOTE: Miranda News Philippines cannot provide the video from any prominent sources like Agence France-Presse due to Copyright).

A heavy security blanket has descended on the Pakistani capital as an advanced US motorcade reached the city’s high-security "Red Zone" ahead of direct negotiations with Iranian officials. The talks, brokered by Pakistan and reportedly supported by China, aim to transform a fragile two-week ceasefire into a permanent resolution to the war that began on February 28, 2026

US Vice President JD Vance is leading the American team, which includes senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They are set to meet with an Iranian delegation led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Authorities have declared a two-day public holiday to clear the streets. The Serena Hotel and other key venues in the Red Zone have been evacuated of all non-essential guests to accommodate the high-level dignitaries. 

While both sides have agreed to a 15-day window for talks, major hurdles remain. Iran is pushing its 10-point proposal, which includes the lifting of all sanctions and the withdrawal of US forces from the region. Meanwhile, Washington is prioritizing the immediate, permanent reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and strict limits on Iran’s nuclear enrichment.

The atmosphere remains tense following continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Iranian leadership has warned that further attacks on its regional allies could render the Islamabad negotiations "meaningless". Islamabad Police have issued extensive traffic diversions on the Express Highway and other major arteries. Pakistan has announced a "visa on arrival" policy for all international delegates and media arriving specifically for the summit to facilitate the diplomatic push.