Islamabad Reopens After U.S.-Iran Talks Fail to Materialize
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Islamabad residents experienced a near week-long quasi lockdown as they awaited high-level U.S.-Iran negotiations that ultimately did not occur together.
- President Trump canceled the American delegation’s trip, leading to frustration among local business owners who suffered significant financial losses due to closures.
- Pakistan has actively positioned itself as a mediator between the U.S. and Iran, hosting initial talks in April and preparing for a second round by accommodating delegations and sealing off large areas of the city.
- The luxury Serena Hotel and surrounding two-mile perimeter were closed, forcing numerous businesses and services to shut down without compensation in anticipation of the talks.
- Despite visits from Iranian and Pakistani officials, the expected joint U.S.-Iran negotiations in Islamabad did not materialize, leaving residents and business owners feeling the disruption was in vain.
