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ISLAMABAD — A surge in hotel bookings and disruptions to local services have gripped Pakistan’s capital this week, as anticipation builds for another potential round of peace negotiations between the United States and Iran. The diplomatic dance continues, with both nations and their host, Pakistan, keeping their cards close to the chest regarding the likelihood of renewed talks to resolve the ongoing seven-week conflict.
The signs, however, are hard to ignore. Islamabad’s top hotels, including the luxury Movenpick and the Serena Hotel, a previous venue for the US-Iran discussions, have fully booked their rooms, leaving no space for new reservations in the coming days. This echoes the high demand seen during last weekend’s dialogues, which drew hundreds of journalists from around the globe.
Guests currently staying at the Serena and Marriott Hotel have been informed that they will need to seek alternative accommodations starting Sunday night. This has only fueled speculation that significant diplomatic activities are on the horizon.
Further adding to the intrigue, the cities of Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi have announced the suspension of certain transportation services. The sudden move, effective Sunday, contributes to the mounting expectation of an imminent high-profile gathering.
What’s more, the city of Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi announced on Sunday that they were shutting down some forms of transportation for the foreseeable future.
“Heavy transport and public transport in the city are being suspended until further orders,” Islamabad’s district administration announced in a post to X. “Citizens are earnestly requested to cooperate with the security agencies. Thank you.”
While a date has not been announced for round two, US, Iranian and Pakistani sources have all indicated discussions could take place as soon as Tuesday.
It takes at least a full day to travel from the United States to Pakistan on most commercial airlines.
Even Air Force Two took roughly 17 hours to transport Vice President JD Vance and the rest of the American delegation to Islamabad on April 11.
President Trump has previously indicated he would be open to coming to Islamabad, but said he would not come until a deal is ready to be signed.
It remains unclear who from the United States may come to Islamabad should a second round of negotiations occur.