U.S. State Department Urges Americans in Haiti to “Depart Now” Amid Rising Violence

Journalists stand next to a yellow police cordon near the residence of Haiti’s President Jovenel Moise after he was shot dead by unidentified attackers, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti July 7, 2021. REUTERS/Estailove St-Val

The U.S. State Department is encouraging all Americans in Haiti to “depart now” as violence continues to rise in the Caribbean nation.

The announcement comes as 17 missionaries, including 16 Americans, are still being held hostage by a local gang that is demanding a $17 million ransom for their release.

“The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to make plans to depart Haiti now via commercial means. U.S. citizens should carefully consider the risks of traveling to or remaining in Haiti in light of the current security situation and infrastructure challenges,” a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Haiti said. The announcement was released on Wednesday.

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SOURCE: Christian Headlines, Amanda Casanova