Trump administration intensifies efforts against Harvard and Columbia

In a sharp move against America’s top universities, President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a six-month ban on visas for new international students at Harvard University and warned he may strip Columbia University of its accreditation.

The White House justified the actions by citing national security risks and accusing Harvard of tolerating anti-Semitism and promoting a liberal agenda. Existing international students at Harvard could also lose their visas.

“Harvard’s actions make it an unsuitable destination for foreign students and researchers,” the order declared.

International students at Harvard reacted with shock and anger. Karl Molden, a government and classics student from Austria, called the move “outrageous” and an abuse of executive power.

Background and Impact

This move follows previous attempts by the Trump administration to block Harvard from enrolling international students, efforts that were halted by a judge. The government has already cut about $3.2 billion in federal funding to Harvard and promised to block future grants.

Harvard, with international students making up 27% of its enrollment in 2024-2025, has been a key target after resisting government demands for oversight on curriculum and “viewpoint diversity.”

A Harvard spokesperson condemned the move as “illegal retaliation” and vowed to continue defending its international students.

Columbia University Under Threat

Meanwhile, Education Secretary Linda McMahon threatened to revoke Columbia University’s accreditation over alleged failure to address anti-Semitic harassment on campus. Losing accreditation would cut off all federal funding and student aid.

McMahon accused Columbia of ignoring harassment following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, calling it “immoral and unlawful.”

The Education Department’s civil rights office has contacted Columbia’s accrediting agency to review the allegations.

Columbia responded by affirming its commitment to combating anti-Semitism and working with the federal government to address concerns.

Critics say the administration is using anti-Semitism claims to pressure elite universities accused of liberal bias. Columbia has already agreed to government oversight and policy changes amid a $400 million funding review.