Pakistan puts Islamabad, Rawalpindi on high alert ahead of US–Iran peace talks

KATHMANDU: Pakistan has placed its twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi under tight security ahead of the second round of US–Iran peace talks aimed at reducing rising tensions in the Middle East.

According to police sources, around 20,000 security personnel have been deployed across the cities, including elite commandos and snipers stationed at sensitive locations.

Units from the Punjab Highway Patrol, Dolphin Force, and Quick Response Force have also been put on high alert.

Surveillance has been intensified through “Safe City” camera networks, while snipers have been positioned on rooftops for round-the-clock monitoring. Authorities say similar high-level security arrangements were implemented during the first round of talks.

Officials confirmed that advance security teams, including special personnel from the United States, have already arrived in Pakistan to coordinate safety measures.

As part of the security plan, all public and freight transport movement in Islamabad and Rawalpindi has been suspended. Entry points to the highly sensitive Red Zone have been sealed.

In addition, the government has taken control of major hotel rooms in the capital. Guests at prominent hotels such as Serena Hotel and Marriott Hotel have been instructed to vacate, while hostels and guest houses across the city have been ordered to shut down until further notice.