Trump Halts TikTok Ban, Proposes US-China Partnership to Save App
News Desk
Islamabad: In a surprising move, US President Donald Trump has issued an executive order pausing the enforcement of a law that would effectively ban TikTok in the United States. The 75-day delay comes as Trump explores a partnership between the app’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, and American companies, potentially averting its shutdown.
The law, known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, went into effect on January 19 and sought to prohibit TikTok’s distribution and updates over national security concerns. These concerns center around allegations that the Chinese government could use the app for espionage or to manipulate public opinion in the US.
Speaking from the White House, Trump credited TikTok for its role in securing the youth vote during his election, saying, “I guess I have a warm spot for TikTok that I didn’t have originally.” The newly inaugurated president floated the idea of a 50-50 joint venture between US companies and ByteDance, which he claims could eventually value the company at over $1 trillion.
TikTok operations were briefly halted in the US over the weekend as the law took effect, leaving millions of users unable to access the platform. However, Trump’s swift action reversed the situation, with TikTok resuming service on Sunday and crediting the president for the reprieve.
Under the new executive order, US service providers, including Apple, Google, and Oracle, are shielded from liability while continuing to host or update TikTok during the pause. This clarification allows these companies to avoid penalties, which could reach $5,000 per user if the app were accessed during a ban.
The delay is intended to provide time for a resolution that protects national security while preserving the platform for its 170 million American users. Trump hinted at potential diplomatic hurdles, stating, “We may need China’s approval for this deal, but I’m confident they’ll cooperate—or face consequences.”
As negotiations unfold, the 75-day reprieve represents a critical window for TikTok’s future in the US, with Trump’s administration aiming for a solution that balances security concerns and the app’s popularity.
