Naqvi, US envoy reviews security for expected US-Iran talks in Islamabad

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met US chargé d’affaires to Pakistan Natalie Baker at the US Embassy on Monday to discuss security arrangements ahead of the expected talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad, according to the interior ministry.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed the overall security situation and detailed agreements with Baker expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts and its role in ensuring a secure environment amid regional sensitivities.

The statement said that senior officials, including FIA Director General Dr. Usman Anwar, Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf, Inspector General Ali Nasir Rizvi, and Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon were also present.

Naqvi said “special security arrangements have been made for all distinguished guests” attending the talks, adding that Pakistan is fully prepared to ensure foolproof security, the ministry added. He expressed hope for the successful completion of the upcoming round of negotiations in Islamabad.

Pakistan took center stage when it brokered a 14-day ceasefire between the US and Iran, followed by high-level talks in Islamabad attended by senior delegations from the two countries. Although the talks did not yield the desired results, the ceasefire remains intact and confidence-building measures are being pursued to secure a permanent ceasefire.

A second round of talks is expected to be held in Islamabad as US President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that his representatives are set to arrive in Islamabad on Monday evening.

Twin Cities on alert

Authorities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have put in place extensive security and administrative measures ahead of the expected next round of US-Iran talks in the federal capital, effectively putting the twin cities on high alert.

The red zone has been sealed off, with all public and private offices and schools instructed to switch online, while government operations have been moved to remote work.

Heavy and public transport across Islamabad and Rawalpindi has been suspended for the time being, while the metro bus service between Saddar and Pak Secretariat has also been halted.

Major roads, including key arteries in the red zone and surrounding areas, have been closed or restricted, with extensive diversion plans implemented to manage traffic flow. Universities have switched classes online and postponed exams, while hostels, hotels and guest houses in sensitive areas have been ordered closed.

Security has been significantly tightened with the deployment of over 10,000 policemen in Rawalpindi and around 18,000 security personnel are expected overall, including police, Rangers and Frontier Corps. More than 600 checkpoints have been established with strict surveillance at entry and exit points.

Sensitive areas around Nur Khan Airbase and Islamabad International Airport have also been sealed off, along with bans on drones, aerial firing and pigeon flying, as authorities describe the measures as part of foolproof security arrangements for visiting foreign delegations.