The US Department of Justice has asked a federal appeals court to reject ByteDance and TikTok's emergency motion to temporarily block the law that would ban the social media app in the US unless it divests from Chinese ownership by January 19. This move comes as the latest development in the ongoing saga surrounding TikTok's future in the US.

According to Reuters, the Justice Department argued that the court should not delay the matter, citing the "continued Chinese control of the TikTok application" as a "continuing threat to national security." This stance underscores the US government's long-standing concerns about the potential risks associated with Chinese-owned technology companies operating in the US.

ByteDance and TikTok filed the emergency motion on Monday, seeking a temporary hold on the ban to give the Supreme Court a chance to review the case. The companies also argued that a delay would "give the incoming administration time to determine its position" on the matter. This move is seen as an attempt to buy time and potentially capitalize on the transition of power in the US.

Interestingly, President-elect Donald Trump has hinted at the possibility of preventing a ban on TikTok, which could provide a lifeline for the social media platform. This development raises questions about the potential implications of a Trump administration on the tech industry, particularly with regards to Chinese-owned companies.

The ongoing dispute between the US government and TikTok has significant implications for the tech industry, national security, and global trade relations. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the incoming administration will approach this issue and what the long-term consequences will be for TikTok and other Chinese-owned technology companies operating in the US.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.