Peace Talks in Pakistan: Anticipation Grows
ISLAMABAD — As the world eagerly awaits a potential second round of peace discussions between Iran and the United States, major hotels in Pakistan’s capital have reached full capacity this week. Furthermore, some transportation services were halted on Sunday in Islamabad and its surrounding areas.
While there’s been no official confirmation from the U.S., Iran, or mediator Pakistan regarding a new meeting to discuss the ongoing war, indications suggest that such a meeting might be on the horizon.
The Movenpick Hotel, a luxurious venue in Islamabad that recently hosted numerous local and international journalists during last weekend’s discussions, quickly sold out of rooms. Similarly, the Serena Hotel—which served as a base for U.S.-Iran negotiations—has stopped taking new reservations.
Guests currently staying at the Serena and Marriott Hotels in Islamabad were instructed to find alternative lodging starting Sunday evening.
Additionally, officials in Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi announced the suspension of various transportation services until further notice.
“Large transportation and public transport in the city will be suspended until further orders,” stated the district administration, adding that they appreciate the public’s cooperation with security agencies.
While a specific date for the next round of discussions has not been disclosed, sources from the U.S., Iran, and Pakistan suggest that talks could potentially begin as soon as Tuesday.
Travel from the United States to Pakistan is typically a lengthy endeavor, taking at least a full day on most airlines. In fact, it took the Second Air Force about 17 hours to transport Vice President J.D. Vance and the American delegation to Islamabad on April 11.
President Trump has voiced a generally optimistic outlook regarding a visit to Islamabad, but he has made it clear that he won’t go until the groundwork for a deal is firmly in place.
It’s still uncertain who will represent the U.S. in Islamabad if the second round of talks ultimately takes place.
