Why is TikTok still operating in the US post-deadline?

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TikTok Continues US Operations Despite Missed Divestment Deadline

TikTok remains accessible in the United States following the expiry of a deadline set by the Trump administration for its parent company, ByteDance, to divest its American assets. Negotiations between ByteDance and US government negotiators are ongoing, indicating a continued effort to resolve national security concerns. The Committee on Foreign Investment, overseen by the Treasury Department, is actively engaging with ByteDance to address these risks, despite the missed midnight Eastern time deadline on Friday for ByteDance to sell its US operations.
Ongoing Negotiations to Resolve National Security Concerns

Despite the missed deadline, discussions between ByteDance and US government officials are progressing. The Committee on Foreign Investment, under the purview of the Treasury Department, is engaged in these talks to finalize the divestment and implement measures to mitigate national security risks associated with ByteDance's transaction. This continued engagement suggests a pathway toward a potential resolution, even as the initial deadline passed without a completed sale of TikTok's US operations.
Legal Restraints Have Previously Halted Ban Enforcement

Previous attempts by the US government to ban TikTok have been stalled due to judicial intervention. A US federal judge issued an injunction in late October that temporarily blocked an executive order aimed at banning the app. This ruling prevented TikTok from being taken offline by cutting off essential services, such as website hosting and data storage, which are critical for its operation. This was not the first such restraint, as a separate injunction in September, stemming from a lawsuit filed by TikTok itself, prevented the government from removing the app from download platforms.
Proposed Oracle Deal Faces Ownership and Export Control Hurdles

A tentative agreement previously outlined would have seen Oracle serve as TikTok's technology partner and a stakeholder in a new entity, TikTok Global. Under this proposal, Oracle would manage data security via its cloud servers, while TikTok would retain control over its algorithms and technology. However, former President Trump had indicated he would not approve any deal involving continued Chinese ownership or control. Furthermore, China's tightening of controls on technology exports has introduced complexities that could hinder any potential sale or restructuring of TikTok's US assets.

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Why is TikTok still operating in the US post-deadline?

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