TikTok Service Resumes in US

TikTok restores service in the US after Trump’s intervention delays national security law enforcement.

TikTok has resumed service for its millions of users in the United States after President-elect Donald Trump intervened. This move temporarily delays the law that was set to ban the app due to national security concerns.

On Saturday, TikTok ceased functioning for American users after a new law went into effect, requiring TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its US operations or face a ban. The law had been upheld by the US Supreme Court earlier in the week.

However, Trump announced on Sunday that he would delay the law’s implementation. He stated, “I’m asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark! I will issue an executive order on Monday to extend the period of time before the law’s prohibitions take effect, so we can make a deal to protect our national security.”

In response, TikTok said it was “restoring service” and thanked Trump for “providing clarity and assurance.” The app also expressed its intent to work with Trump to find a long-term solution that keeps TikTok operational in the US. TikTok’s CEO, Shou Chew, plans to attend Trump’s inauguration.

The law requiring ByteDance to sell its US operations had bipartisan support in Congress. The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the law had been seen as a victory for those concerned about national security risks tied to Chinese-owned apps.

However, some Republicans, like Senator Tom Cotton, disagreed with Trump’s move. Cotton warned that companies helping TikTok stay online could face significant legal liabilities.

On the other hand, Trump’s intervention marked a shift from his previous stance, where he supported banning the app. He has recently expressed a “warm spot” for TikTok, especially after his videos gained billions of views during his 2024 presidential campaign.

As the situation unfolds, the legal and political complexities remain unclear. The law does allow for a 90-day delay if national security issues are being addressed. However, it’s uncertain whether TikTok has met the required conditions for that delay.

The outcome of this issue will likely depend on Trump’s executive order and how both the courts and Congress respond.

Source: BBC