Twin Cities Under Siege: Islamabad, Rawalpindi locked down as high-stakes talks begin

ISLAMABAD: Authorities imposed sweeping security measures across Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Saturday, effectively placing the twin cities under lockdown as crucial negotiations between the United States and Iran commenced.

The high-security Red Zone in Islamabad was completely sealed, with containers and barbed wire blocking all entry and exit points. A heavy deployment of police, paramilitary Rangers, and military personnel was seen guarding key government installations, including the Prime Minister’s House, the Presidency, and diplomatic enclaves.

Strict security checks were enforced across the capital, with vehicles and pedestrians screened at multiple checkpoints. The venue hosting the talks was converted into a fortified zone, with special units deployed in and around a private hotel accommodating the delegations. Surveillance was intensified through CCTV cameras and drone monitoring to detect any suspicious activity.

Security officials revealed that over 10,000 personnel had been deployed across both cities, supported by quick response forces on high alert. Bomb disposal squads were stationed at sensitive locations, while search operations were carried out in vulnerable areas. As part of precautionary steps, authorities also partially suspended mobile services and slowed internet speeds.

In Rawalpindi, a near-complete lockdown was enforced. Major commercial areas, including Raja Bazaar, Saddar, Committee Chowk, and Murree Road, remained closed, with minimal traffic visible. Residents were advised to limit movement, while access to several localities was restricted.

Public transport services were severely disrupted, with the Metro Bus service between the twin cities suspended along with Islamabad’s electric buses and Rawalpindi’s green bus network. The closure of stations left thousands of commuters struggling to find alternative travel options.

Authorities in Rawalpindi established additional checkpoints and intensified patrols by police and elite units, while security around sensitive installations was further tightened. Educational institutions and offices remained closed due to a public holiday, though emergency services continued to function.

Officials stated that the extraordinary measures were necessitated by the presence of senior US and Iranian delegations, warning that any lapse in security could have far-reaching consequences for both Pakistan and the broader region.

Intelligence agencies remained on high alert, closely monitoring the situation. Analysts noted that such extensive security arrangements are typically reserved for highly sensitive international events, highlighting the significance of the ongoing talks as the twin cities temporarily came to a standstill.