The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cited improvements in Somalia’s conditions as the reason for ending the protections. DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said the country no longer meets the legal criteria for TPS, which is designed to shield foreign nationals from return to nations experiencing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary conditions.

Somalia’s TPS designation was first granted in 1991 and has been extended multiple times. Current figures indicate that thousands of Somali nationals in the United States hold TPS or have pending applications, although estimates vary.

The decision comes amid heightened tensions in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where federal immigration enforcement operations recently prompted protests following the fatal shooting of a woman by a federal immigration agent. The incident has drawn national attention and led to demonstrations and legal challenges against the government’s immigration actions.

Local officials in Minnesota have filed lawsuits alleging constitutional violations as federal authorities continue enforcement operations, while federal agencies maintain they are upholding existing immigration laws and public safety.

The end of Somali TPS marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, affecting individuals who have lived in the country under temporary protections for decades.