Key Takeaways:
– Biden administration grants Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Lebanese citizens in the US
– Temporary status will enable approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals to stay and work in the US for up to 18 months
– Homeland Security states the measure serves to ensure stability and security discussions on the Israel-Lebanon border
– Critical support for Lebanese nationals amidst conflicts in Lebanon is expected from the move
– TPS had covered nearly 900,000 individuals in the US suffering from civil strife or natural disasters by March’s end
Temporary Protected Status for Lebanese Citizens
The Biden administration announced the awarding of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Lebanese nationals in the U.S on Thursday. The move is likely to be a welcome one for Arab voters, especially in key states like Michigan. This announcement follows an earlier agreement in July, enabling around 11,000 Lebanese to continue residing and working in the US for a period of 18 months.
Scope and Aim of the Measure
These protective measures apply to Lebanese citizens who were in the US on Wednesday. Homeland Security highlighted that the goal is to facilitate a peaceful resolution and permanent stability and security across the Israel-Lebanon border.
Political Implications
The ongoing conflicts in Lebanon and the Middle East have been a focal point in recent times for Vice President Kamala Harris and previous President Donald Trump. Both figures had to address these conflicts as they wrapped up their terms in the White House.
Escalated Conflicts
The Israeli forces and Hezbollah militants clash in Lebanon has been ongoing since 8th October 2023. This conflict emerged when the Lebanese militia launched rockets across the border in support of its Gaza-based ally, Hamas. Following these events, Israel instigated a significant aerial and ground offensive aimed at pushing back Hezbollah from the border.
Response from Local Governments
Assad.I.Turfe, Wayne County, Michigan’s deputy executive, lauded TPS as it provides valuable support to Lebanese nationals. Turfe stated this initiative would assist in reuniting American-based families while offering relief from the challenges stemming from the conflict.
An Overview of TPS at a Glance
Congressional Research Service data indicates that nearly 900,000 people were covered under the TPS by the end of March. Originating in 1990, the law offers legal status to people already in the US from countries experiencing civil strife or natural disasters.
Deferred Enforcement Departure
Almost concurrently, the US has a similar program known as Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED). Unlike TPS, which falls under the Homeland Security Department, the president operates the DED. Some Palestinians, Lebanese, Liberians and Hong Kong residents living in the US are currently under this program.
Synopsis
This move by the Biden administration is a significant step towards helping Lebanese nationals residing in the US. It brings hope amidst the challenging situations faced due to the ongoing conflict in their home country. Consequently, it presents an example of the substantial measures governments can take to support affected populations.