The Department of Homeland Security has announced that Lebanese nationals residing in the United States will be granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS) due to the ongoing armed conflict and conditions in Lebanon. This move by the Biden administration comes in response to the Hezbollah-Israel military conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas declared the designation for Lebanon for 18 months, citing the ongoing armed conflict and temporary conditions that prevent Lebanese nationals from safely returning to their country. Those approved for TPS will be allowed to stay in the US while diplomatic efforts are made to achieve lasting stability and security in the region.
Lebanese Americans have been advocating for this decision, with White House officials meeting with community members and engaging in virtual discussions on the matter. The Arab American community in Michigan, a critical voting bloc, sees this move as a positive step that could boost support for Vice President Kamala Harris.
Michigan state Rep. Alabas Farhat praised the announcement of TPS for Lebanon but also urged the administration to consider implementing humanitarian parole for Lebanese citizens. Lawmakers, including Senators Gary Peters, Dick Durbin, and Ben Cardin, have also pressured the Biden administration to grant TPS to Lebanon due to the worsening humanitarian emergency in the country.
Earlier this year, President Biden granted temporary protections to Lebanese nationals in the US through deferred enforced departure, allowing them to remain in the country and obtain work permits. The administration's decision to grant TPS to Lebanon reflects its commitment to providing humanitarian relief to those affected by the conflict and crisis in the region.
