Chinese short video app, TikTok is back online in the US after President Donald Trump intervenes

In a dramatic turn of events, The Chinese short video app, TikTok has resumed its services for its 170 million users in the United States following President-elect Donald Trump's announcement that he would issue an executive order to delay the enforcement of a law that would ban the app. This reprieve came just in time, as the Chinese-owned app had ceased functioning for American users on January 18 after the law banning TikTok on national security grounds went into effect.

Trump, who had previously supported the ban, took a surprising step on January 19 by promising to extend the timeline for the implementation of the law. His promise to delay the ban was aimed at giving both parties more time to negotiate a potential deal that would allow TikTok to continue operating in the US. Following his statement, TikTok confirmed it was in the process of "restoring service" to its American users. Within hours, the app was back online, and a popup message appeared thanking Trump by name for his intervention.

The company's statement expressed gratitude to the incoming president for "providing the necessary clarity and assurance" and reiterated its commitment to working with Trump on a long-term solution that would ensure TikTok’s future in the United States. The CEO of TikTok, Shou Chew, is even expected to attend Trump's inauguration on January 20, signaling the significance of the ongoing discussions between the two parties.

Trump's involvement in the TikTok saga has been somewhat of a rollercoaster. While he had originally backed the ban, his decision to delay its enforcement comes as a surprise to many. On his own social media platform, Truth Social, he posted, “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 that we can make a deal to protect our national security.” This statement has left many wondering about the legal authority Trump possesses to delay the law, which had already been upheld by the Supreme Court and went into effect over the weekend.

TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, had previously ignored a law requiring it to sell its US operations to avoid the ban. Now, with Trump’s executive order looming, the fate of the app in the United States rests in the balance as the incoming administration works to reach a resolution that satisfies national security concerns without completely severing ties with one of the most popular platforms in the world.

The situation remains fluid, but one thing is clear: TikTok’s place in the US is far from certain, and President Trump’s upcoming actions may very well determine whether the app remains a staple of American social media or becomes another casualty of the ongoing US-China tensions.