Islamabad on edge as Red Zone stays closed, other routes reopen

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad remained under heightened security lockdown on Tuesday as authorities tightened restrictions ahead of expected Iran–US diplomatic engagement, with the Red Zone sealed, transport suspended, and a high-level government meeting scheduled to review the evolving situation.

Officials said Islamabad has been placed on “high alert” amid uncertainty surrounding potential negotiations between Iran and the United States, with security forces maintaining strict controls across sensitive areas of the capital.

The Red Zone — home to key government buildings, diplomatic enclaves and the parliament — remained fully sealed for a third consecutive day, with joint police and paramilitary checkpoints established at all entry points. Army personnel were also seen conducting patrols in coordination with civilian law enforcement agencies.

Authorities also suspended Metro Bus operations and closed major bus terminals across Islamabad and Rawalpindi as part of precautionary security measures. However, services at the Chungi No. 26 terminal were partially restored, easing limited commuter movement.

Officials said several main roads leading to the capital’s diplomatic and administrative zones remain restricted, although some routes in peripheral areas have been reopened to reduce pressure on residents.

The heightened security measures come amid preparations for possible diplomatic activity involving foreign delegations. However, confirmation of high-level meetings remains pending, and planned arrivals have reportedly been delayed.

A meeting of senior government officials has been convened under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to assess the regional situation and Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement efforts, according to official sources.

The meeting is expected to review Islamabad’s ongoing facilitation role in encouraging dialogue between Tehran and Washington, as well as developments following an announced extension of a ceasefire arrangement in the region.

Sources said Pakistan is expected to maintain contact with Iranian leadership as part of its diplomatic outreach, while also welcoming signals of restraint from Washington following recent ceasefire developments.

Daily life disrupted in twin cities

Despite tightened restrictions, routine life continued in limited form across parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where markets remained partially open and food supplies were largely unaffected, according to local reports.

However, transport disruptions have significantly affected daily commuting. Some bus terminals remain closed, while goods transport between the twin cities has been intermittently suspended.

Government employees have been advised to work remotely in several departments, while schools in the Red Zone shifted to online classes due to access limitations in the capital.

Residents described mixed sentiment over the situation — welcoming Pakistan’s elevated diplomatic profile but expressing frustration over prolonged disruptions to mobility and economic activity.

“We have to live here; roads are shut, children cannot go to school, and transport costs have increased,” said one Islamabad resident, reflecting growing public fatigue with repeated security shutdowns.

Small businesses and daily wage workers have been among the most affected, with reduced customer traffic and supply chain interruptions contributing to financial strain.

Diplomatic backdrop

The security lockdown comes amid continuing uncertainty over planned Iran–U.S. discussions, which have been repeatedly delayed amid shifting diplomatic dynamics and regional tensions.

Pakistan has positioned itself as a facilitator for dialogue between the two sides, hosting preparatory arrangements in recent days, although key delegations have yet to arrive.

Earlier rounds of engagement ended without a breakthrough, even as diplomatic channels remain active in efforts to sustain a fragile ceasefire environment and prevent further escalation in the region.

Officials say Islamabad’s security posture will remain in place until clarity emerges on the timing and scope of any high-level diplomatic activity in the capital.