Pakistan hosts high-stakes US-Iran negotiations as massive security operation unfolds in capital.
ISLAMABAD: A United States military aircraft carrying a security advance team landed at Nur Khan Airbase on Thursday afternoon as Pakistan prepares to host critical peace talks between the United States and Iran on Friday.
The arrival signals the start of intensive preparations for negotiations aimed at converting a fragile two-week Gulf ceasefire into a permanent agreement. According to local television channel 24NewsHD, the American team will inspect security arrangements, review venues, and coordinate with Pakistani authorities ahead of the main delegation's arrival.
International media including Axios, Bloomberg, and Al Jazeera have widely reported the development, confirming Pakistan's pivotal mediation role in brokering the recent ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally visited the designated talks venue to assess measures, accompanied by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and senior officials. Security personnel provided detailed briefings on deployment strategies and contingency plans during the inspection.
Authorities have placed Islamabad on high alert with more than 5,000 personnel from police, Rangers, and intelligence agencies deployed across the city. The Red Zone stands fully sealed using shipping containers while snipers occupy strategic positions on key buildings to ensure layered protection.
Dozens of US Secret Service and CIA agents have also reached Islamabad to bolster security arrangements, particularly for high-profile visitors including a delegation reportedly led by US Vice President JD Vance.
The talks follow Pakistan's successful back-channel diplomacy that helped secure the immediate ceasefire announced earlier this week. Prime Minister Sharif publicly stated that the agreement covers all theatres, including Lebanon, and took effect without delay.
Iranian officials have expressed appreciation for Pakistan's efforts, with President Masoud Pezeshkian conveying thanks in direct communication with Sharif. Tehran has indicated the negotiations will proceed based on its 10-point proposal addressing sanctions relief, regional security, and control aspects related to the Strait of Hormuz.
Global energy markets remain sensitive after recent disruptions, with analysts noting that a successful permanent deal could stabilize oil prices that spiked during the short conflict. Pakistan's role has drawn praise from multiple quarters, positioning Islamabad as a trusted neutral facilitator between the two sides.
Search operations and combing activities continue in Islamabad and surrounding Rawalpindi districts to neutralize any potential threats. Local administration announced surprise two-day holidays in the federal capital to facilitate smooth movement and enhanced checks.
The Serena Hotel in Islamabad reportedly received government requisition for the event, with guests asked to vacate premises as part of logistical arrangements. Similar protocols apply to other potential venues and routes.
Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan's army chief, has been credited alongside the prime minister for building rapport with US leadership, including direct engagement that contributed to de-escalation.
Diplomats highlight the significance of these talks occurring on Pakistani soil, marking a rare instance of direct high-level engagement between the United States and Iran in recent years. Outcomes could influence broader Middle East stability, nuclear concerns, and proxy dynamics across the region.
Pakistani leadership continues to emphasize dialogue as the only sustainable path forward, urging both parties to seize this opportunity for comprehensive resolution of longstanding disputes.
Security remains the overriding priority, with multi-layered checks ensuring no gaps in protection for foreign dignitaries and local assets. Officials express confidence that arrangements will meet the highest international standards for such sensitive engagements.
The development underscores Pakistan's growing diplomatic stature in mediating complex conflicts, leveraging its unique relationships with both Washington and Tehran.