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The Trump administration has launched a review of Harvard University’s $9 billion in federal funding, citing allegations of anti-Semitism on campus. The move follows the withdrawal of millions of dollars from Columbia University, which also faced pro-Palestinian student protests.
Former President Donald Trump has intensified his crackdown on elite universities that have witnessed student demonstrations fueled by anger over Israel’s war in Gaza. His administration not only revoked federal funding but also called for the deportation of foreign students involved in protests, including Green Card holders.
Federal officials are now scrutinizing contracts worth $255.6 million between Harvard and the U.S. government, as well as $8.7 billion in multi-year grant commitments to the Ivy League institution.
Critics argue the move is a retaliatory effort that could stifle free speech, while supporters claim it is necessary to restore order on campuses and protect Jewish students.
“Harvard’s failure to protect students from anti-Semitic discrimination while promoting divisive ideologies at the expense of academic freedom has severely damaged its reputation,” said Education Secretary Linda McMahon.
She added, “Harvard has the opportunity to correct these mistakes and reclaim its status as a university committed to academic excellence and truth-seeking, where all students feel safe on campus.”
Harvard President Alan Garner warned that losing federal funding could have dire consequences. “If this funding is cut, life-saving research will halt, and crucial scientific innovations will be at risk,” he said in a statement.
He confirmed that the government is reviewing Harvard’s handling of anti-Semitic harassment concerns but rejected accusations of inaction. “Over the past 15 months, the university has strengthened its policies and disciplinary measures to address anti-Semitism on campus,” Garner said.
Trump has also targeted Columbia University in New York, initially placing $400 million in federal funding under review. The administration suspended graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a prominent figure in the campus protests, and pushed for additional disciplinary actions.
In response, Columbia agreed to a series of concessions, including redefining anti-Semitism, increasing oversight of protests, and monitoring certain academic departments. However, the university has yet to meet some of the administration’s key demands.
A statement released Monday noted that the ongoing review of Harvard follows a similar investigation into Columbia. “That review led to Columbia agreeing to comply with nine preconditions to further negotiations on reinstating revoked federal funds,” the statement said.
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