ISLAMABAD: The federal capital is in the global spotlight as Pakistan prepares to host historic negotiations between the United States and Iran today (April 11), aimed at finding a lasting resolution to the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The talks come after Pakistan successfully brokered a two-week ceasefire between the two sides, marking a significant diplomatic breakthrough and elevating the country’s role as a mediator on the international stage.
The atmosphere in Islamabad is marked by heightened activity and optimism, with welcome banners displayed across the city reflecting public enthusiasm and support for peace efforts.
Shehbaz Sharif meets JD Vance
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met United States Vice President JD Vance as Pakistan formally commenced high-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran, aimed at achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.
VP JD Vance lands in Islamabad
Vice President of the United States J.D. Vance landed in Islamabad to engage in important negotiation sessions with Iranian representatives after the two sides had reached a ceasefire agreement via Pakistan’s mediation.
The US delegation includes the US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and senior Commander of CENTCOM Brad Cooper.
They were welcomed at the airport by the Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff, and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, among other Pakistani officials.
This came as a result of the recent ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and Iran, which set the stage for direct diplomacy efforts.
These sessions are expected to provide a crucial breakthrough to the existing situation between the parties.
Iranian Delegation Arrived in Pakistan
A high-level Iranian delegation arrived in Islamabad on Friday night for ceasefire talks with the United States, while US Vice President JD Vance has left for Pakistan with his delegation.
The talks are taking place against the backdrop of a two-week ceasefire agreed during the war that began after the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28.
A temporary ceasefire between the parties was possible after an appeal made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif this week, after which formal talks are scheduled for Saturday.
According to the Foreign Office, the Iranian delegation is being led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, while the delegation also includes Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, the Secretary of the Defense Council, the Governor of the Central Bank of Iran and other members of parliament.
Upon arrival in Islamabad, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defense Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi welcomed the Iranian delegation.
The Foreign Office statement said that “the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister expressed the hope that the parties will negotiate constructively, and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to continue its facilitation efforts to reach a lasting and sustainable solution to the conflict.”
The talks between the US and Iran are being hailed as a significant step towards reducing tensions in the region and potentially a lasting peace agreement, with Pakistan once again playing a key diplomatic role.
Islamabad traffic diversion plan ahead of peace talks
The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has published a detailed traffic diversion plan because foreign delegations will travel through the federal capital on April 12, 2026.
The authorities have informed residents to limit their travel and use different streets to reduce their travel difficulties. The traffic advisory states that road diversions will occur at essential locations through Islamabad and Rawalpindi according to a scheduled timetable.
The public needs to comply with the designated routes, which have been established. The authorities have asked residents to wait patiently while they use different streets to maintain uninterrupted traffic movement during the security-sensitive movement.
Traffic Diversion Plan
- Traffic coming from GT Road Peshawar towards Rawalpindi is advised to use Taxila Motorway, Chakri, Chak Beli Road, and Rawat.
- Vehicles traveling from Lahore towards Peshawar should use Rawat, Chak Beli Road, Chakri, and Taxila Motorway.
- Traffic from G-5/G-6 and Margalla Road towards Rawalpindi is advised to use 9th Avenue.
- Traffic from Faisal Avenue towards Zero Point will be diverted towards 9th Avenue.
- Travelers from Bhara Kahu towards Rawalpindi should use Ring Road, Bani Gala, and Tera Road.
- Traffic from Rawalpindi to Islamabad (Saddar/Murree Road side) should use 9th Avenue.
- Zero Point–Faisal Avenue Expressway will remain closed for movement in both directions from Rall Chowk onwards.
- Traffic from Colonel Sher Khan Road towards Faizabad is advised to use Stadium Road via the 9th Avenue Signal.
- Heavy traffic coming from Peshawar to Lahore should use the Taxila Motorway and Tarnol Phatak via Fateh Jang Motorway.
- Heavy traffic from Lahore GT Road towards Islamabad/Rawalpindi is advised to use Chak Beli Road and Chakri Motorway.
