Islamabad Prepares for Historic US-Iran Peace Negotiations
In a significant diplomatic move, Islamabad is gearing up to host historic negotiations between Iran and the United States, with the goal of ending a war that has ravaged the Middle East. The streets of Pakistan's capital are under strict lockdown, with the army deployed and a public holiday declared, creating an eerily empty atmosphere as security is heightened for the high-stakes talks.
Ceasefire and Diplomatic Efforts
The conflict, which erupted in late February when Israel and the US attacked Iran, has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread global economic devastation. Iran's retaliatory blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has triggered a severe oil and gas shortage, leading to the worst energy crisis in history. Pakistan's mediation efforts on Tuesday night were pivotal in securing a two-week ceasefire, after US President Donald Trump issued stark warnings. This ceasefire deal includes an agreement for both sides to meet in Islamabad to negotiate a lasting peace, marking a major diplomatic victory for Pakistan.
However, critical questions linger over the ceasefire's terms. While Iran and Pakistan assert that the ceasefire encompasses Lebanon, the US and Israel maintain it is a separate issue. Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has emphasized that peace talks would be meaningless if bombing in Lebanon continues. According to Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh, Pakistan has played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in maintaining the fragile ceasefire and preventing further retaliation.
Security Measures and Preparations
Ahead of the first round of discussions scheduled for Saturday, Islamabad has implemented extensive security protocols. Army personnel and paramilitary rangers have been deployed across the capital, with roads leading to key venues like the Serena hotel blocked off. A public holiday on Thursday and Friday has emptied the streets, as officials remain tight-lipped about arrangements, citing security and diplomatic sensitivities.
One official involved in the preparations stated, "Our priority is that the talks go smoothly. We don't want to be seen as a spoiler. Our role is as a facilitator and mediator. We will leave it to both parties, Iran and the US, to share any developments with the media if they want." Key delegations are expected to arrive on Thursday night and Friday morning, with the US team led by Vice-President JD Vance, accompanied by special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran's delegation will include Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, along with senior figures from the Revolutionary Guard.
Venue and International Participation
Due to high security risks, Pakistani officials have lined up three to four possible venues for the critical meeting, including the prime minister's secretariat, Islamabad's convention centre, or a secure military location. The most high-profile attendees are likely to stay at the exclusive five-star Serena hotel, which may also host the talks. The hotel has been cleared of guests, and surrounding roads have been shut under army control. Guests evicted from the Serena were informed it would be occupied until Sunday night, though there is no set timeline for the talks.
In addition to the main negotiations, delegations from Gulf countries such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia, which have faced heavy bombardment from Iran, will travel to Islamabad and may participate in sideline talks. In a meeting on Thursday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir, credited with brokering the ceasefire, expressed satisfaction over the de-escalation achieved so far, underscoring Pakistan's pivotal role in this diplomatic endeavour.
