Security remains on high alert in the federal capital amid expectations of a possible second round of US-Iran talks. Authorities have sealed key areas while maintaining strict movement restrictions across parts of the city.
Officials confirmed that the Red Zone in Islamabad remains completely sealed as part of heightened security measures.
The restrictions come in view of potential second-round talks between the United States and Iran, with no risks being taken around sensitive government areas.
Several major routes in the capital have been shut to control movement. The road from Dhokri Chowk to Serena Hotel remains closed, while barricades have been placed on Srinagar Highway near Zero Point.
Additionally, police have closed Jinnah Avenue near Khyber Plaza, further restricting access to central Islamabad.
Despite the strict lockdown, authorities have provided limited relief by reopening some smaller roads in the extended Red Zone.
Public transport services remain suspended
Transport services across the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi remain disrupted. Metro bus services, feeder routes, and bus stands are closed for the day, causing inconvenience for daily commuters.
Also Read: Trump announces extension of Iran ceasefire at Pakistan's request
In contrast to transport closures, main markets in the twin cities are open as usual, allowing routine commercial activity to continue. Authorities appear to be balancing security needs with minimizing disruption to daily life.
Situation under close monitoring
Security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely as uncertainty surrounds the timing and nature of the expected diplomatic engagements.
Further updates are likely as developments unfold regarding the possible US-Iran talks in Islamabad.
Earlier on Wednesday, US President Donald Trump had announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran.
In a statement on the social media platform Truth Social, President Trump said the planned strike against Iran had been postponed for the time being at the request of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, to allow the Iranian leadership and its representatives to present a joint proposal.
Also Read: PM Shehbaz thanks Trump for Iran ceasefire extension
He said the ceasefire would remain in place until Iran submits its proposal and negotiations reach a conclusion.
The US president added that the American military had been instructed to maintain the blockade against Iran and remain fully prepared in all other matters. He said the Iranian government was facing severe internal divisions, which he termed as not unexpected.
Therefore, the White House confirmed that Vice President JD Vance would not travel to Pakistan for the expected second round of US-Iran talks.
“The trip to Pakistan will not be happening today. Any further updates on in-person meetings will be announced by the White House,” an official said in a statement.
Also Read: JD Vance's Pakistan visit cancelled: White House
The visit had been scheduled for Tuesday, with Vance leading a US delegation to Islamabad for face-to-face negotiations with Iranian officials.
According to the White House, the decision to cancel the visit reflects Washington’s position that it is waiting for Iran to present a cohesive and unified proposal before continuing talks.
“In light of President Trump’s Truth Social post confirming the United States is awaiting a unified proposal from the Iranians, the trip to Pakistan will not be happening today,” a White House official told the press pool.
