Islamabad was placed under an extensive lockdown on Friday, as Pakistan prepares to host high-stakes talks between the United States and Iran set to begin later in the day. Authorities blocked major roads with shipping containers and barbed wire, while deploying heavy security forces across the capital ahead of the expected arrival of delegations.

The area surrounding the Serena Hotel, where the talks are scheduled to take place, was sealed off in a radius of more than 2 miles. The hotel was cleared of guests and placed under government control, with checkpoints, patrols, and access restrictions extending across the city. Even hiking trails in the hills overlooking Islamabad were closed, while officials declared public holidays in the capital to limit movement.

The United States delegation is expected to be led by Vice President JD Vance, while Iran’s team is headed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Pakistani officials confirmed the talks will focus on stabilizing a fragile ceasefire and addressing broader regional tensions, including disputes tied to the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing military activity.

The negotiations mark a major diplomatic push by Pakistan, which has positioned itself as a mediator amid escalating tensions. Analysts warned the effort carries significant risk, with one noting that Pakistan has “publicly invested political capital in mediation; if talks collapse, it risks being seen as overpromising and underdelivering.”

The buildup to the talks included the arrival of an advance U.S. security team earlier in the week, as authorities intensified preparations.