An unusual calm reigned over Islamabad on Friday. The Pakistani capital, usually bustling, emptied of its usual hustle and bustle in anticipation of crucial talks between the United States and Iran.
The goal: to negotiate a lasting ceasefire after weeks of fighting that have shaken the region. The deserted streets bore witness to the scale of the security measures: virtually no traffic, checkpoints on the main roads, and a two-day long weekend encouraging residents to stay home. Authorities have locked down the city, deploying additional military and police forces to prevent any incidents.
Behind this apparent calm, diplomatic activity is in full swing. US Vice President JD Vance is expected this Friday, while an Iranian delegation is also due to arrive. The talks, which will begin on Saturday, are attracting worldwide attention. Islamabad thus finds itself at the heart of international efforts to end a conflict that has already claimed thousands of lives.
