The metro bus service operating between Islamabad and Rawalpindi has been restricted between Rawalpindi Saddar Station and the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). This temporary suspension was implemented on Thursday following directives from the district administration, which also advised commuters to seek alternative transportation options.
Specifically, the route from PIMS to the Pak Secretariat has been halted as part of enhanced security measures. These precautions coincide with Islamabad’s preparations to host high-level diplomatic negotiations between the United States and Iran, resulting in increased security protocols throughout the twin cities.
In a related move, authorities declared a two-day local holiday in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to ensure smooth security arrangements ahead of the talks. The diplomatic engagement is scheduled to begin on Saturday, with a senior US delegation led by Vice President JD Vance arriving in the capital for discussions aimed at reducing tensions in the Middle East.
The US team will include prominent figures such as Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, highlighting the significance Washington places on these negotiations. These talks follow a fragile two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, providing a narrow opportunity for diplomatic progress after weeks of escalating conflict.
Pakistan is serving as a neutral host for the talks, emphasizing its role as a regional mediator facilitating direct dialogue between Washington and Tehran. Iran is expected to be represented by senior officials, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The discussions are anticipated to focus on Tehran’s nuclear program and its activities in the region.
Despite substantial differences between the two parties, diplomats view the Islamabad meeting as one of the most important efforts to transition from a temporary ceasefire toward a more comprehensive and lasting agreement.
