Pakistan is preparing to host critical peace talks between the United States and Iran after helping broker a two-week ceasefire. A two-day holiday has been declared in Islamabad ahead of the expected talks on Saturday, though it is still unclear if both sides will attend.
Security has been tightened across the capital, with around 10,000 police and security personnel deployed. Streets have grown quieter as the country prepares for what could be a major diplomatic moment, as per BBC.
The stakes are high globally, with countries closely watching for a possible reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route through which about 20% of the world’s oil supply passed before the conflict.
According to BBC, experts warn that Pakistan faces serious risks if talks fail. Abdul Basit, a South Asia expert, described a potential “nightmare scenario” where Pakistan could be dragged into a wider conflict.
Iranian voices have made it clear that any move toward negotiations is not a sign of weakness. In a statement shared by Elyas Hazrati on X, it was said that Iran imposed its will on the enemy through the blood of its martyrs and will not retreat in the arena of politics and diplomacy from its dignity and its rights.
US President Donald Trump has taken a sharp stance, questioning Iran’s intentions and warning that military action remains an option if talks fail. Trump also raised concerns about trust in negotiations, saying that Iran may not tell the truth.
The talks in Islamabad are expected to focus on key issues, including US demands for Iran to hand over enriched uranium, reopening the Strait of Hormuz for global shipping, ending support for regional proxies and discussions around Iran’s missile program and sanctions.
