President Donald Trump has signed an executive order allowing the US to punish countries that illegally detain US nationals or take them hostage.
The US Department of State threatened severe consequences, including economic sanctions, visa bans, aid restrictions, and travel restrictions for US passport holders.
“Anyone who uses an American as a bargaining chip will pay the price,” the statement said, adding that the move puts Americans first.
The Foley Foundation estimates at least 54 Americans were held hostage or wrongfully detained in 17 countries in 2024. #DWAfrica