Trump administration escalates clash over Harvard's visa policy
The Trump administration is threatening to revoke Harvard's ability to admit international students, citing alleged "illegal and violent" actions by students with visas. Secretary Kristi Noem has demanded documentation by April 30. Harvard denies the allegations and defends its independence.
The administration led by Donald Trump is heightening its conflict with Harvard University, threatening to revoke the right to admit international students, according to the German newspaper "Die Welt." Secretary Kristi Noem has requested documentation from the university regarding the alleged "illegal and violent" activities of students with visas.
According to "Welt English News," Harvard refutes these accusations, underscoring its independence and the right to protest.
Noem further announced that the department will withhold two grants totalling 2.7 million dollars (3.75 million Canadian dollars) for Harvard. She accused the university of endorsing "anti-American, pro-Hamas ideology."
Harvard responded by stating that it opposes anti-Semitism and other prejudices while safeguarding academic freedom.
Harvard vs. Trump: Conflict intensifies
The conflict is deepening, and the Trump administration also plans to revoke Harvard's tax-exempt status.
In response to student protests against Israel's actions in Gaza, the Trump administration had previously threatened other universities, including Columbia and Princeton, with freezing funds.
The administration argues that these protests often manifest as anti-Semitic actions. Harvard has rejected the government's demands, which the university argues would infringe upon its autonomy.
