The administration of President Donald Trump has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for migrants from Yemen, a move that could expose thousands to deportation within the next two months.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the decision reflects a reassessment of U.S. immigration and national security priorities.
“Allowing TPS Yemen beneficiaries to remain in the United States is contrary to our national interest,” Noem said in a statement accompanying the announcement.
Temporary Protected Status allows nationals of designated countries experiencing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary conditions to live and work legally in the United States for a limited period. The designation for Yemen had been repeatedly extended in past years due to the country’s ongoing civil war and humanitarian crisis.
Under the new directive, affected migrants are expected to lose their protected status after a 60-day wind-down period unless they qualify for another legal immigration pathway.
Immigrant advocacy groups are expected to challenge the decision, arguing that conditions in Yemen remain unstable and dangerous for returnees. Supporters of the policy, however, say TPS was never meant to be permanent and should be reviewed regularly to ensure it aligns with U.S. interests.
