Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, has been placed under tight security as it prepares to host the peace talks between Iran and the United States.
Authorities have deployed troops, shut down major roads, and declared a public holiday, leaving usually busy streets deserted ahead of the talks scheduled to begin today, April 10.
The negotiations follow a fragile two-week ceasefire brokered earlier this week, after months of war involving Iran, the US, and Israel.
The conflict, which began in late February, has killed thousands and triggered a global energy crisis after Iran blockaded the vital Strait of Hormuz, disrupting oil and gas supplies worldwide.
Pakistan’s mediation played a central role in securing the temporary truce, widely seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough for the country.
Officials say the upcoming talks in Islamabad could determine whether that ceasefire holds or collapses.
However, tensions remain high as disagreements persist over whether ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon are covered by the ceasefire.
Iranian officials insist negotiations cannot succeed while bombardments continue, raising doubts about the prospects for a lasting agreement.
Delegations from both sides are expected to arrive under heavy security.
The US team will be led by Vice-President JD Vance, while Iran’s delegation includes Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Representatives from Gulf nations such as Qatar and Saudi Arabia are also expected for parallel discussions.
Multiple venues are being considered for the talks, including government facilities and secure locations, with the city’s luxury Serena Hotel among sites cleared for official use.
Pakistani officials have stressed their role as neutral facilitators.
“Our priority is that the talks go smoothly,” one official said, declining to provide further details due to security concerns.
With no clear timeline for the negotiations and deep divisions still unresolved, the Islamabad meeting is being seen as a critical test of whether diplomacy can end one of the most consequential conflicts in recent history.
