In a lawsuit filed on 20/3, the administration of US President Donald Trump accused Harvard University of allowing a "hostile environment" for Jewish and Israeli students, linked to pro-Palestine protests on campus from 2023 to 2025.

The US Department of Justice stated that Harvard "ignored antisemitism and discrimination against Jewish and Israeli individuals", failing to enforce its own regulations against pro-Palestine and anti-Israel protesters.

"Harvard allowed anti-Israel protesters to occupy libraries. The university also permitted an anti-Israel encampment to remain for 20 days, violating university policy", the lawsuit stated.

The Harvard University Business School campus in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 4/2025. Photo: Reuters

In this lawsuit, the Trump administration requested the court declare Harvard University in violation of its agreement with the federal government. Consequently, the administration would no longer be obligated to pay millions of USD in federal funds to the school, and demanded the university reimburse funds already received.

Harvard University issued a statement the same day, expressing "deep concern for the school's Jewish and Israeli community members". It pledged to ensure these students are welcomed, respected, and can thrive within the university.

Harvard affirmed it has taken "practical, proactive steps" to address the root causes of antisemitism, enhancing training and education on antisemitism for students, faculty, and staff.

The Trump administration's action is the latest blow to Harvard University. Previously, the US government cut hundreds of grants for researchers at the institution. Last month, President Trump announced he would demand 1 billion USD in compensation from Harvard, though he did not specify the damages caused by the university.

Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, CNN, Reuters)