Traffic Curbs, Schools, Markets Shut : Pakistan Turns Fortress, Islamabad On High Alert Ahead Of US-Iran Peace Talks
Islamabad : 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. 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.
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. Facilitated through Pakistan’s diplomatic intervention, the temporary truce has opened a narrow and fragile opportunity for both sides to engage in talks, which are aimed at preventing further escalation.
According to a Gulf News report, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has assured the US Ambassador of “foolproof security” to the visiting American delegation. His assurance comes even as a 30-member US advance team has arrived in Islamabad to review security arrangements, according to the publication. However, doubts have been raised about Islamabad’s ability to secure the crucial event, scheduled to take place at Hotel Serena, a prominent five-star property and a regular venue for high-level diplomatic engagements.
Several reports also suggest that Islamabad has also taken steps to secure its skies ahead of the talks. According to open source data, the Pakistan Air Force has deployed IL-78 refuelling tankers and C-130 aircraft to ensure safe air protocol for incoming delegations. PAF fighter jets have been spotted over Bandar Abbas in Iran, providing escort to the Iranian delegation’s aircraft. According to defence analysts, an AWACS platform has been deployed to establish a “protective shield” across the flight path.
