US Grants Temporary Protected Status to Lebanese Nationals Amid Ongoing Conflict

 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a new "temporary protected status" (TPS) for Lebanese nationals in the U.S., allowing them to remain in the country and apply for work permits. This decision comes as Lebanon faces ongoing armed conflict, particularly with Israel escalating its invasion and attacks on Hezbollah.

As of July 2024, around 11,500 Lebanese nationals were living in the U.S. on various nonimmigrant visas, including for business, tourism, and temporary work. Most of these individuals are located in California and Michigan. With the new TPS designation, approximately 11,000 Lebanese nationals are now eligible to apply for protected status, offering them relief from deportation. Additionally, 1,740 Lebanese students may qualify for special student relief.

The TPS designation will be in effect for 18 months, reflecting the "ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Lebanon" that make it unsafe for nationals to return. The DHS has clarified that Lebanese individuals in the U.S. before October 16, 2024, can apply for this status, while those arriving after that date will not be eligible.

Under the Biden administration's deferred enforced departure program, eligible Lebanese nationals can also apply for employment authorization, valid until January 25, 2026.

This announcement follows a request made by three Democratic senators—Ben Cardin (Maryland), Gary Peters (Michigan), and Dick Durbin (Illinois)—who urged the Biden administration to provide Lebanon with temporary protected status. In their letter, they cited the worsening humanitarian crisis, including growing food insecurity, economic collapse, and political instability due to the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. They also noted that over one million people have been displaced internally, according to reports from Lebanese and international agencies, including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

The U.S. has expressed opposition to the scale of Israeli airstrikes on Beirut but continues to provide military support to Israel. As the situation in Lebanon remains dire, this move by the U.S. government offers vital protection and assistance to Lebanese nationals affected by the conflict.