President Donald Trump has intensified his conflict with Harvard University, aiming to block international students from attending the institution following a court ruling that halted a previous attempt to bar Harvard from enrolling international students. Trump issued a travel ban restricting nationals from 19 countries, asserting that Harvard’s actions have made it unsuitable for foreign students and researchers. Harvard has condemned this move as an illegal violation of its First Amendment rights, emphasizing the importance of international students to its academic community and the nation.

The latest proclamation suspends the entry of foreign nationals seeking to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard, with exceptions considered for those deemed to be in the national interest. This decision follows increased scrutiny of visa applicants for Harvard and the pause of new student visa interviews by the State Department, citing concerns about social media activity.

Harvard has also faced the threat of federal funding cuts and the loss of its tax-exempt status, along with being targeted by the Trump Administration along with other elite U.S. universities. The government claims Harvard is no longer a reliable overseer of international student programs due to rising crime rates, lack of cooperation with Homeland Security, foreign entanglements, and alleged civil rights violations. The proclamation cites concerns about Harvard’s disciplinary practices, foreign funding, and alleged discriminatory admission policies.

With nearly 7,000 international students at Harvard, the impact of these actions could be significant, both financially and academically. The latest measures add to the Trump Administration’s efforts to restrict international students’ visas across the country, particularly targeting Chinese students over national security concerns.