The Embassy of the United States in Kathmandu on Monday ordered mission family members, U.S. employees and citizens to leave the country due to the deteriorating situation and ongoing security concerns after 18 days of general strikes.

"Under ordered departure, mission family members and non- emergency American employees would depart Nepal as soon as possible. American citizens should also depart Nepal as soon as possible," the Embassy said in a statement.

At least 14 people have been killed and many other injured across the country during clashes between the protesters and the security forces since the strike began on April 6.

"American citizens also are advised that the Nepali government continues to use curfews and other sometimes violent measures to control the growing number of large and widespread demonstration," the Embassy said.

The Department of State is concerned by threats to personal safety from "political instability, civil disorder, demonstrations " and lack of supplies and essentials entering the country, according to the statement.

It also said that protesters have attacked numerous vehicles, including diplomatic ones during demonstrations.

"Security forces have "shoot-to-kill" orders for curfew violators and used tear gas and rubber bullets against demonstrators," the statement said.

Source: Xinhua