Biden Grants TPS to 11,000 Lebanese Nationals Amid Escalating Israel-Lebanon Conflict
October 17, 2024This designation allows eligible individuals to remain in the U.S. and apply for work permits amid ongoing armed conflict in Lebanon.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and has displaced over one million people internally within Lebanon.
The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee praised the TPS measures but criticized U.S. military support for Israel amidst the conflict.
While the U.S. government has expressed concern over the scale of Israeli attacks, it continues to support Israel's military actions against Hezbollah.
This decision may enhance support for Vice President Kamala Harris among the Arab American community in Michigan, a significant voting bloc.
The TPS announcement is likely to resonate positively with Arab voters, particularly in battleground states like Michigan.
To qualify for TPS, individuals must have been in the United States as of the announcement date.
On October 17, 2024, the Biden administration announced Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals currently residing in the United States.
This announcement comes as Israeli military operations in Lebanon continue, resulting in significant casualties and displacement of the Lebanese population.
Approved TPS recipients will be allowed to remain in the U.S. while diplomatic discussions for stability along the Israel-Lebanon border continue.
The decision is motivated by the need for a diplomatic resolution to achieve stability and security along the Israel-Lebanon border.
The decision follows advocacy from Lebanese Americans and pressure from U.S. lawmakers, including Senators Gary Peters, Dick Durbin, and Ben Cardin.
Summary based on 10 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Oct 17, 2024
US grants temporary protected status to Lebanese nationals amid Israel warAP News • Oct 17, 2024
Homeland Security grants temporary status to Lebanese already in the United States