Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a six-month suspension on the entry of foreign nationals seeking to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard University. The move comes amid escalating tensions between the administration and the Ivy League school, which has been accused of having concerning foreign ties and security risks.
The proclamation allows for an extension beyond six months and directs the State Department to consider revoking visas of current Harvard students who meet certain criteria. Harvard has strongly condemned the action, calling it an illegal retaliatory measure that violates the university’s First Amendment rights.
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This decision follows a recent court ruling that temporarily blocked the government from revoking Harvard’s certification to enroll international students. The State Department has also increased visa scrutiny for applicants traveling to Harvard, citing concerns about foreign influence and campus security.
Harvard, with nearly a quarter of its student body from abroad, has vowed to protect its international students and continue challenging the administration’s actions. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions over national security and academic freedom in U.S. higher education.