A man rides a motorcycle past Pakistani Rangers standing guard and securing the Red Zone area, as Pakistan prepares to host the U.S. and Iran for peace talks, in Islamabad, Pakistan, April 10, 2026. REUTERS/Asim Hafeez

Traffic curbs, schools, markets shut: Islamabad turns fortress for US-Iran talks

Authorities have also declared a holiday on Thursday and Friday in the national capital in a bid to minimise civilian movements ahead of the crucial talks.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Islamabad is hosting US-Iran talks, starting April 11
  • Islamabad’s Red Zone is under ultra-high security
  • Roads near government buildings closed for traffic

Amid the fragile ceasefire in the Middle East, all eyes will be on Islamabad, which will host talks between the US & Iran from April 11.

The Pakistani capital has already turned into a fortress, with security forces patrolling key roads and government installations. Visuals from Islamabad show the city's Red Zone under tight security, with only limited civilian movements allowed in the area.

Roads across the Red Zone, which houses the Parliament, key government installations, luxury hotels, embassies and the offices of foreign organisations, have been blocked for civilian vehicles.

Armed police guards have set up several checkpoints across the city while authorities have implemented traffic diversions to ensure smooth movement of the visiting teams.

In fact, a 30-member US advance team has already arrived in Islamabad to review security arrangements, according to a Gulf News report.

Authorities have also declared a holiday on Thursday and Friday in the national capital in a bid to minimise civilian movements ahead of the crucial talks. Many schools and shops have been closed, with only limited activity seen in some areas.

PAKISTAN TO ISSUE VISA-ON-ARRIVAL FOR TALKS

Meanwhile, Pakistan has decided to issue visa-on-arrival for all individuals travelling for the upcoming talks.

According to a document from the Government of Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior & Narcotics Control, all delegates, including journalists, will be granted visas on arrival. The government has also set up special facilitation desks at airports to assist arrivals.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that Pakistan has streamlined entry procedures to support the talks between the US & Iran.

- Ends