Harvard among universities targeted by Trump’s executive order on Palestine protests and antisemitism

In a sweeping executive order issued Wednesday evening, President Donald Trump directed US universities, including Harvard, to monitor international students participating in pro-Palestine protests. The move is part of a broader initiative to combat antisemitism on college campuses, with specific attention given to actions that could be seen as supporting Palestinian causes.
Trump's order comes amid heightened tensions surrounding the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict and the growing number of protests held by university students in recent months. Under the new directive, universities are required to track and investigate any international students or staff members involved in protests that may break laws. The order also includes a clear warning: those found violating laws could face deportation.
Universities Under Scrutiny
According to the executive order, the Department of Education is tasked with compiling reports on all cases of alleged antisemitism since October 7, 2023. The order also gives universities a 60-day deadline to report any actions related to antisemitism. The Trump administration’s actions have sparked concerns across campuses, where students, faculty, and activists worry about the implications of the new scrutiny.
Harvard University, one of the nation’s most prominent institutions, is specifically mentioned in the order, alongside other schools with large international student populations. As reported by The Harvard Crimson, the university has not yet commented on the order but is expected to comply with the directive. The Crimson also noted that some university leaders fear the chilling effect these measures may have on free speech and activism.
A Divisive Move
While the executive order promises to "combat antisemitism vigorously," critics argue that it may unfairly target students of Arab, Muslim, and Palestinian descent, potentially leading to racial profiling. Trump’s administration has made it clear that violations could result in investigations and, if necessary, the deportation of individuals found in breach of US laws.
This order represents the latest in a series of executive actions aimed at reshaping university policies and regulations, particularly on issues of diversity, free speech, and international student rights. The full impact of the order remains to be seen, but it has already sparked intense debate across academic and political circles.