Twin cities residents commended for patience as traffic restrictions lifted

Authorities have formally lifted traffic restrictions across the twin cities on Sunday, expressing high praise for the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi for their patience during recent security-related road closures.

Security was heightened and restrictions were imposed for several days in the area ahead of anticipated US-Iran peace talks.

“Traffic restrictions around Serena Hotel and the Red Zone have been lifted as of today. I extend my deepest gratitude to the people of Pakistan—particularly the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi—for their patience and cooperation,” Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar wrote on his X account.

DPM Dar said their support had enabled the government to ensure the safety of the state guests and to advance the efforts for regional peace. “We remain committed to these objectives and deeply value your continued prayers and well wishes,” he maintained.

Authorities were seen removing barricades in the twin cities on Sunday.

The development comes as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier said he had spoken to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on April 25 after the second round of US-Iran negotiations in Islamabad were called off and reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to facilitating “durable peace”.

READ MORE: Iran minister Araghchi returns to Pakistan despite US talks cancellation

President Donald Trump said on Sunday that Iran can reach out to the United States if it wants to negotiate an end to the war between the two countries.

“If they want to talk, they can come to us, or they can call us. You know, there is a telephone. We have nice, secure lines,” Trump said in an interview on Fox News’ “The Sunday Briefing.”

Trump canceled a trip by his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan on Saturday, dealing a new setback to peace prospects after Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi departed Islamabad after speaking only to Pakistani officials.