US-Iran deal: Trump announces representatives will participate in Islamabad Talks

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump announced that the representatives of his administration will visit Pakistan to participate in the Islamabad Talks, as efforts by Pakistan pushed both US and Iran to strike a deal between the two countries.

The president Trump’s latest announcement came at a time when hopes were at peak, with Pakistan’s citizens believing that he himelf would join the talks. However, the latest announcement confirmed that only the US representatives will join the US-Iran deal in Islamabad.

“We’re offering a very fair and reasonable deal, and I hope they take it because, if they don’t, the United States is going to knock out every single power plant, and every single bridge, in Iran,” Trump wrote.

Trump has accused Iran of violating a ceasefire agreement by opening fire in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming that some shots were directed at a French vessel and a UK freighter.

In his post uploaded on the Truth Social, he expressed hopes that Tehran would agree to what he described as a “fair and reasonable deal.”

The president also referred to Iran’s reported move to close the Strait of Hormuz, saying the waterway was already effectively shut due to a US blockade. He claimed the closure was hurting Iran economically, estimating losses of around $500 million per day, while stressing that the United States was unaffected.

Trump warned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to severe consequences, including potential US strikes on Iran’s infrastructure. He added that the US was prepared to act if necessary, signaling a sharp escalation in rhetoric amid ongoing tensions.

Roads sealed, routes diverted ahead of US-Iran deal

Authorities in Islamabad have announced a comprehensive traffic management plan ahead of the arrival of foreign delegations, with strict restrictions in place across key parts of the city.

The Red Zone and extended Red Zone will remain completely closed to all types of traffic. The Expressway from Koral to Zero Point has also been shut, while traffic on Srinagar Highway may be halted at intervals. Entry of heavy vehicles into Islamabad from all directions has been banned, and transporters have been advised to avoid traveling to the capital during this period to prevent inconvenience.

Residents have been provided with alternative routes. Those living in central sectors such as G-5, G-6, G-7, F-6, and F-7 are advised to use 9th Avenue via Margalla Road to reach Rawalpindi. Traffic from Faisal Avenue heading toward Zero Point will also be diverted to 9th Avenue. In case of closures at Koral Chowk, commuters can use routes via Srinagar Highway, Stadium Road, Murree Road, Chandni Chowk, and Rawal Road.