Islamabad remains under tight security with no confirmed U.S.-Iran talks, causing transport chaos, shortages, and business disruption across the capital.
WEBDESK – MEDIABITES NEWS
Pakistan’s capital remained under strict security lockdown on Friday with no confirmed schedule for a second round of U.S.-Iran peace talks, as prolonged restrictions disrupted transport, trade, and everyday life across the city.
Authorities kept key entry points to Islamabad sealed, while the high-security Red Zone housing major government offices remained heavily barricaded amid expectations that foreign delegations could arrive at short notice.
Officials said the heightened security posture would remain in place in case senior representatives — including Donald Trump — decide to travel for negotiations.
The lockdown marks the second major shutdown in two weeks. Islamabad was first placed under extraordinary security measures earlier this month when Pakistani officials hosted initial indirect contacts between the United States and Iran, though no agreement emerged.
Restrictions were briefly eased before being reinstated in anticipation of follow-up talks that have yet to be formally announced.
Residents said uncertainty had become the most frustrating aspect of the situation. Intercity bus terminals were largely inactive, leaving many weekend travelers unable to return home.
Daily commuters, students, and private sector workers were among those hardest hit, while business owners reported sharply reduced customer traffic and growing financial losses.
Supply chains were also affected after trucks carrying vegetables, fruit and other perishables were delayed outside the city limits, creating shortages in markets, restaurants and cafés.
Shopkeepers in the Blue Area commercial district said several fresh items had run low, while normally crowded shopping zones appeared unusually quiet.
Foreign journalists who had arrived to cover the expected diplomacy also remained on standby in hotels with little clarity on whether talks would proceed.
Pakistan has attempted to position itself as a mediator between Washington and Tehran, but the continued delay has raised doubts over the immediate prospects for diplomatic progress.
As of Friday, there was no clear sign of either the political stalemate or Islamabad’s sweeping lockdown ending soon.
