On the eve of sensitive high-level talks between the United States and Iran, Pakistan has declared a two-day emergency local holiday in its capital, Islamabad. The move is being viewed as part of heightened security preparations.
The Islamabad district administration issued a notice late Wednesday announcing the decision, which will come into effect from Thursday, but did not formally disclose the reason. However, officials in the capital have previously followed a similar practice of imposing holidays or restrictions ahead of major diplomatic engagements, citing security concerns.
Pakistan is currently preparing to host talks between the United States and Iran amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. According to the White House, US Vice President JD Vance is expected to lead the American delegation to the talks scheduled in Islamabad later this week. The meeting is being widely viewed as significant for regional stability.
The announced holiday will apply only within the Islamabad Capital Territory on Thursday and Friday, the district administration said. Government and private offices will remain closed during this period, likely affecting routine activities across the capital.
However, authorities have clarified that essential services will remain operational. Police, hospitals, electricity, and gas supply agencies will continue functioning. “Essential services will remain open,” the deputy commissioner’s office said in a social media statement, urging residents to plan their daily activities accordingly.
The move is also being interpreted as part of Pakistan’s broader effort to position itself as a mediator on the international diplomatic stage, with a clear emphasis on ensuring high-level security arrangements.
Lebanon Attack Puts Ceasefire at Risk
The United Nations has expressed serious concern that the ongoing deadly military attacks by Israel in Lebanon are putting the fragile ceasefire recently agreed between the United States and Iran at significant risk. With signs of escalating conflict, diplomatic efforts are increasingly seen as weakening.
In a statement issued through the spokesperson of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, it was noted that the ongoing military activities in Lebanon pose a serious challenge not only to the ceasefire but also to regional stability and long-term peace efforts. The Secretary-General has once again urged all parties to immediately end hostilities and return to dialogue, the spokesperson said.
