Washington: The administration of US President Donald Trump has decided to end the temporary protected status of approximately 4,000 Syrian refugees on its territory, according to an official announcement from the US Department of Homeland Security.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the decision comes as part of a broader White House effort to expand the categories of immigrants eligible for deportation.

Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughly explained that this decision is based on her assessment that conditions in Syria “have improved and no longer prevent its citizens from safely returning to their homeland.”

Syrians covered by this decision are given 60 days to leave the United States “voluntarily,” with a warning that anyone who remains after this period will face detention and immediate deportation.