US flags china arms concerns rising

High-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad are unfolding against a backdrop of rising military tensions and fresh intelligence concerns, even as diplomatic efforts seek to prevent further escalation.

According to a report by CNN, US intelligence assessments indicate that China may be preparing to supply new air defence systems to Iran within weeks. The report, citing sources familiar with the matter, said Beijing could route shipments through third countries to conceal their origin.

The talks are being held at the luxury Serena Hotel, which has emerged as the focal point of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. The Pakistani capital has been placed under unprecedented security, with authorities shutting shops and offices for two days. Thousands of security personnel, including paramilitary forces and army troops, have established checkpoints and barricades across the city. The heavily fortified Red Zone—home to key Government buildings and foreign embassies—has been completely sealed off.

Even as talks continue, violence on the ground shows little sign of easing. The Israel Defense Forces said it carried out strikes on more than 200 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon over the past 24 hours, including rocket launchers and infrastructure.

The Israeli military said its air force operations are ongoing, supporting ground troops engaged in southern Lebanon. Tensions have also spiked in the Gulf. A US naval vessel, earlier spotted near Fujairah port in the United Arab Emirates, reportedly altered course after Iran warned it would be targeted within 30 minutes if it entered the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.