Noem stated that "temporary means temporary," and that allowing Somali nationals to remain in the U.S. was "contrary to our national interests." She added, "We are putting Americans first." The announcement follows Donald Trump's initial expression of intent to terminate protections for Somali nationals in November, as posted on Truth Social.

TPS is a program that provides temporary legal status to foreign nationals in the U.S. who are unable to return to their home countries due to armed conflict, natural disaster, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. The designation allows beneficiaries to live and work legally in the United States for a designated period, which can be extended by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

The decision to end TPS for Somalis raises concerns about the potential impact on individuals who have built lives and families in the U.S., as well as the potential strain on Somalia, which continues to face significant challenges related to security, governance, and humanitarian conditions.

The Trump administration has taken a hard-line stance on immigration, ending TPS for several countries, including El Salvador, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Sudan. These decisions have been met with legal challenges and widespread criticism from human rights organizations and advocates.

The two-month window for Somalis to leave the U.S. or face deportation will likely be a period of uncertainty and anxiety for affected individuals and families. The future for many Somalis in the U.S. is now uncertain, as they face the prospect of returning to a country that may still be unsafe or unstable.