The U.S. government has subpoenaed Harvard University for records related to foreign students allegedly involved in pro-Palestinian protests, intensifying a Trump administration campaign targeting higher education institutions over claims of anti-Semitism and political bias.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the subpoena was issued after repeated requests for information went unanswered. The records sought include communications and documentation concerning foreign students from January 1, 2020, to the present.
“Harvard, like other universities, has allowed foreign students to abuse their visa privileges and advocate for violence and terrorism on campus,” said Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. The Trump administration has labeled campus protests against Israel’s war in Gaza as anti-Semitic and has moved to expel foreign students and faculty who participated.
Harvard responded by calling the subpoenas “unwarranted” and “retaliatory,” but said it would comply with lawful obligations. “We remain committed to upholding academic freedom and the safety of all members of our community,” the university said in a statement.
The controversy comes as the administration pressures accrediting bodies to revoke Harvard’s accreditation, citing alleged violations of federal civil rights laws for failing to protect Jewish students.
Since reassuming office in January, President Donald Trump has made foreign student protest a flashpoint political issue. A recent White House proclamation sought to bar most new international students from attending Harvard and threatened existing students with visa cancellations. That policy was blocked in court after Harvard filed a legal challenge.
International students currently make up 27% of Harvard’s enrollment and are a significant source of revenue. The government has already stripped the university of $3.2 billion in federal funding and vowed to cut off future grants and contracts.
Unlike Harvard, other institutions such as Columbia University have complied with the administration’s far-reaching demands concerning curriculum oversight, student admissions, and political neutrality.
Written By Rodney Mbua
