Serena Hotel in Islamabad clears rooms ahead of US–Iran talks

The Serena Hotel Islamabad has asked all guests to vacate their rooms after the government of Pakistan requisitioned the property for what officials described as an “important event,” fuelling speculation about potential talks between the United States and Iran.

According to a notice issued by the hotel management and obtained by TASS, the directive requires guests to check out by 5:00 p.m. on April 8. The document states that the government has taken control of the hotel from the evening of April 8 through Sunday evening.

“We would like to inform you that the Government of Pakistan has requisitioned our hotel for an important event,” the notice reads, adding that the measure is mandatory under official instructions.

A staff member at the hotel earlier indicated that preparations were underway to host delegations from Washington and Tehran. However, it remains unclear whether the Serena Hotel itself will serve as the venue for direct negotiations or merely as accommodation for the visiting delegations.

Donald Trump announced on April 7 a two-week mutual ceasefire with Iran. According to him, the sides have resolved most of their outstanding disputes, and the United States is considering Tehran’s 10-point proposal as a “workable basis” for further negotiations.

The US president stated that the decision was made on the condition that Iran would be ready to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. In turn, Tehran agreed to halt its “defensive operations” provided that no strikes are carried out against the Islamic Republic.

Shehbaz Sharif, acting as a mediator between the sides, invited them to hold talks on April 10. According to Iranian state television, the negotiations are expected to be held directly.

By Vugar Khalilov