Major highways, motorways closed ahead of peace talks

ISLAMABAD: The authorities have closed multiple essential highways that connect to Islamabad for public transportation because they need to implement strengthened security protocols before the upcoming United States-Iran diplomatic meetings.

Motorways permit private vehicle access without any restrictions, but public transportation services, which include buses and coaches, will remain suspended until further notice.

The closure is currently in effect for today only, though authorities have indicated it may be extended depending on the evolving security situation. The United States and Iran negotiations will proceed because the two parties have decided to hold talks with Pakistan acting as their mediator.

The move is aimed at ensuring “foolproof security arrangements” in Islamabad, particularly in high-security zones. The Lahore district administration spokesperson explained that federal government directives led to the decision while emphasizing that the closure will remain active only for a limited time period.

Pakistan has increasingly become a neutral ground for sensitive diplomatic engagements, and the expected US-Iran dialogue requires these precautionary measures because they demonstrate the regional importance of the upcoming talks.

High-level international visits require security protocols, which include traffic restrictions and other enhanced security measures.