by Kim Jinyeong
Published 19 Apr.2026 13:40(KST)
Pakistan has implemented strict security measures ahead of preparations for the upcoming second round of talks between the United States and Iran, scheduled to take place in the country.
According to reports from local media, including the Express Tribune, on April 19 (local time), Pakistani authorities issued a red alert starting today in key areas around Noor Khan Air Base in Rawalpindi, a city adjacent to Islamabad, and around Islamabad International Airport, in preparation for the talks.
More than 600 checkpoints have been established, and around 10,000 police officers have been deployed. Most facilities in these areas-including markets, restaurants, bakeries, parks, and banks-have been closed. In particular, police officers have been stationed on the rooftops of buildings, and all drone flights and activities such as releasing pigeons have been completely banned.
These measures are understood to be aimed at ensuring the safety of foreign delegations arriving in Rawalpindi by air. The Pakistan Air Force has reportedly announced that, if requested by the Iranian side, it is prepared to mobilize fighter jets and other resources to escort the aircraft carrying the Iranian delegation.
Security measures have also been heightened in Islamabad, which is expected to be the venue for the talks. Authorities are checking the security status of buildings-such as houses, shops, shopping centers, and hotels-located along major roads, and have completely banned parking and the entry of anyone not related to the talks in the designated area. Additionally, movement on rooftops, balconies, and around windows of buildings in the area is restricted, and building owners will be held accountable for any violations.
The United States and Iran, having accepted Pakistan's proposed 'two-week ceasefire plan' on April 7, are working toward a resolution to end the conflict by April 21 (U.S. Eastern Time) or April 22 (Iran local time). However, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament and the representative of Iran in the talks, confirmed through state media that while some progress has been made in negotiations, significant differences between the two sides remain unresolved.
The ceasefire mood has deteriorated rapidly after Iran declared a renewed blockade of the Strait of Hormuz the previous day and attacked civilian vessels attempting to pass through the strait. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump convened a meeting in the White House Situation Room.
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