Islamabad: Pakistan has heightened security measures and sealed off the Red Zone in its capital ahead of crucial peace talks between the United States and Iran, scheduled for April 11.

Despite a recently agreed ceasefire between the two nations, tensions across West Asia remain unresolved. Pakistan, which claims to have played a mediating role in securing the temporary truce, is now hosting the next round of diplomatic discussions in Islamabad.

Security has been significantly tightened across the city, particularly in the highly sensitive Red Zone—home to Parliament, key government institutions, foreign embassies, luxury hotels, and offices of international organizations. Law enforcement agencies have intensified patrols around major highways and government buildings, while access to the Red Zone has been restricted.

Authorities declared public holidays in Islamabad on Thursday and Friday to minimize movement, resulting in widespread closure of shops and commercial establishments.

A high-level US delegation led by Vice President J. D. Vance is expected to participate in the talks. Meanwhile, reports from international media suggested that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf had departed for Pakistan. However, Iranian authorities have denied these claims, stating that both leaders remain in Tehran.

If negotiations proceed, Iran is expected to push for key demands, including greater control over the Strait of Hormuz, easing of international sanctions, and assurances against attacks on its regional allies.

At the same time, ongoing Israeli strikes on Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon continue to escalate tensions. Analysts warn that deep mistrust between Washington and Tehran, coupled with regional instability, may limit the prospects of a significant breakthrough in these talks.