Beijing: TikTok warned it would disable access to its platform for 170 million Americans unless urgent action prevents a looming ban.
The Biden administration has not yet issued assurances to prevent the ban, set to take effect this Sunday.
Supreme Court Upholds Ban Legislation
Earlier Friday, the Supreme Court allowed a bipartisan law requiring sale to U.S. buyers by Sunday to proceed.
The legislation, signed in April by President Joe Biden, includes a total U.S. ban on TikTok if compliance is unmet.
Biden Administration Defers to Trump Transition Team
The Biden administration suggested enforcing the ban would be left to President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office Monday.
A White House official reiterated Friday that Biden’s team has no plans to enforce the ban over the weekend.
Seeks Immediate Clarity
TikTok criticized the administration’s statements, calling them insufficient to assure service providers necessary to sustain platform operations.
“Without clear guarantees of non-enforcement, TikTok will be forced to shut down services on January 19,” the company stated.
Service Providers Uncertain of Their Role
Google, Apple, and other hosting platforms lack guidance on their legal exposure for maintaining TikTok’s app beyond Sunday.
This lack of clarity leaves TikTok without secure channels for continued operation in the United States.
Trump Administration’s Role Unclear
President-elect Donald Trump has indicated he may not enforce the ban but has not issued a clear decision.
The Supreme Court recently rejected TikTok’s appeal, stating that the ban does not violate the First Amendment.
Possible Temporary Shutdown
TikTok may temporarily suspend operations Sunday but resume later if Trump provides non-enforcement assurances.
Observers suggest any shutdown would create uncertainty for users and raise questions about TikTok’s long-term future.
TikTok Calls for Action to Avoid Disruption
TikTok said Friday it hopes for rapid government intervention to ensure uninterrupted access for millions of American users.
“Immediate action is necessary to provide clarity and prevent unnecessary disruption,” the company emphasized in its statement.
The situation leaves TikTok, users, and service providers awaiting crucial decisions before Sunday’s deadline.
