The U.S. government has accused Harvard University of violating civil rights laws concerning its treatment of Jewish and Israeli students, according to a letter issued by the Trump administration. The findings allege that the university either ignored or enabled antisemitic harassment on campus. Federal officials warned that failure to address these issues could result in the loss of all federal funding, including research grants and student aid programs.
This development follows months of tension between Harvard and the administration, with over $2.6 billion in funding already withheld. Officials cited student safety concerns, particularly after recent pro-Palestinian protests following the October 2023 Hamas-Israel conflict. The government claims the university failed to enforce its own policies during campus demonstrations.

Harvard has strongly denied the accusations, stating it has taken significant steps to combat discrimination and promote inclusion. The university emphasized its commitment to supporting Jewish and Israeli students and condemned all forms of hate.
President Alan Garber, who is Jewish, has publicly challenged the administration’s approach, questioning whether its actions support genuine efforts to address antisemitism or infringe upon academic freedom. Harvard has even taken legal action to contest some of the government’s decisions.
Negotiations between the school and federal officials are ongoing. Former President Trump recently hinted at a potential resolution, calling it a “historic” step if finalized.
As the debate unfolds, the broader implications for higher education, campus speech, and civil rights remain under national scrutiny.